CM castigates the naysayers of Musi project

CM A. Revanth Reddy defends the Musi Riverfront project against criticism, highlighting benefits for displaced families and urban development.

Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy launched a broadside on the opposition, centred at the Musi Riverfront Development project.

He was speaking at the presentation of detailed project plans of the Musi development on Friday.

He condemned the viral criticism of the project questioning the absence of Detailed Project Report, and said the project will drastically improve the quality of life in the city and keep alive the development continuum since the era of the Asaf Jahi kings.

Speaking of the displacement of the poor for the project, Mr. Revanth Reddy said 10,500 double bedroom houses along with employment opportunities will be provided in the government land parcels around the development region for all the poor families displaced by the project. “My whole system is ready to take care of their needs. What enmity do I have towards the poor? I became the chief minister with their blessings,” he said, even while asserting that he was also keen on real estate development in view of investment and employment opportunities. He invited those opposing the project to stay on the Musi river bank for three months, braving the stench and mosquitoes.

“If they can’t live in huts, I will set up 200 containers for them all along the banks with all facilities,” he said challenging the opponents. Sprinkling his speech with facts about development during Nizam’s era and subsequent regimes since globalisation, the Chief Minister asked the opposition why they were against catching up with the rest of the world in urbanisation centred around river front development. “Why are the leaders who are claiming 10 years of rule and development of a global city and international exposure opposing this project?” He questioned.

Contrary to popular claims, the first phase of the Musi project would cost mere ₹6,000 crore to ₹7,000 crore, of which the whole Gandhi Sarovar Project constitutes only around ₹200 crore to ₹220 crore, he revealed. He also spoke about the travails of farmers and residents downstream of Musi close to Nalgonda, and advised against selfish political interests.