Hyderabad Residents Stage Protest Against Land Acquisition for Gandhi Sarovar Project
Residents of Madhu Park Ridge apartments in Bandlaguda Jagir, Hyderabad, organized a significant protest on Friday, voicing strong opposition to the proposed land acquisition for the Gandhi Sarovar project. This initiative is part of the broader Musi riverfront development plan aimed at rejuvenating the river area.
Background of the Residential Complex
The residential complex, situated near Bapu Ghat, covers nearly seven acres and includes approximately 420 flats. It is home to around 3,000 occupants, many of whom have resided there for 15 to 20 years. Residents claim that nearly 500 families could face displacement, despite the complex having received valid approvals over two decades ago.
Thulasi Chandu, a resident for seven years, emphasized that the apartment received approvals in 2004, with occupancy beginning in 2009. She noted that this timeline precedes the current buffer zone regulations being cited. "The notification only refers to land acquisition for the project but does not explain how our apartment affects the Musi rejuvenation works. We feel the government is forcing residents to vacate without clarity," she stated.
Details of the Gandhi Sarovar Project
The proposed Gandhi Sarovar Project is a 200-acre riverfront development under the Musi rejuvenation programme. It is expected to feature:
- A 150-metre statue of Mahatma Gandhi
- A museum dedicated to Gandhi
- A handloom centre
- Meditation spaces
- Recreational facilities
Residents reported that the land acquisition notice, issued in early February, gave them 60 days to respond. However, it lacked clear mention of buffer zone violations and did not include a detailed project report (DPR), raising concerns about transparency.
Impact on Vulnerable Residents
The complex houses a large number of elderly individuals, retired government employees, and ex-servicemen. K Srinivas, a decade-long resident, highlighted that over 60% of residents are senior citizens, with at least 40 families belonging to ex-servicemen. "Relocating such families without public consultations is unfair," he asserted.
Sridhar VL, a retired Indian Air Force sergeant, expressed worries about disruption to medical care and daily support systems. "Many of us depend on nearby military hospitals and services. Our medical care, schools, and daily support systems are all here. We have been told relocation land may be provided nearby, but we fear it could be far away in areas such as Attapur or Shamshabad," he explained.
Demands for Transparency and Consultation
GV Shekhar, secretary of the Madhu Park Ridge Owners Association, clarified that residents are not opposed to the Musi redevelopment project. Instead, they demand transparency and proper consultation. "We support river rejuvenation, but the government cannot take unilateral decisions without scientific demarcation of river boundaries and a concrete rehabilitation plan," he said.
Some residents also raised concerns about potential impacts on property values and living standards. Priyanka Dwivedi, a resident, mentioned, "Our current homes are spacious and well-planned. We worry that any new construction may disrupt the peaceful environment we have built here."
Future Actions and Legal Considerations
During the protest, residents held placards with messages like "Save Musi river, but save our homes too." They indicated that they would consider legal options if the acquisition proceeds without a clear rehabilitation proposal, emphasizing the need for a fair and inclusive process.
This protest underscores the growing tension between urban development initiatives and the rights of long-term residents, calling for balanced approaches that consider both environmental rejuvenation and community welfare.
