M M Farooqui Hyderabad

ChiefMinister A Revanth Reddy announced on Wednesday that physical works for phase one of the Musi river rejuvenation project will commence soon, assuring that no affected community will suffer any loss. Speaking after inaugurating the restored Thammidikunta lake, the Chief Minister observed that Hyderabad was historically celebrated as a city of rocks and lakes.

He expressed regret that out of 1,372 lakes that once existed in the metropolis, nearly 50 per cent have vanished due to uncontrolled encroachments. He highlighted that such illegal encroachments directly lead to severe water stagnation on city roads during heavy downpours, causing residential colonies to become dangerously waterlogged. Revanth Reddy expressed deep concern over the escalating pollution levels of the Musi river, noting that severe contamination has caused immense hardship to residents living downstream in Nalgonda district.

Outlining his administration vision to preserve nature while positioning Hyderabad as a world-class global destination, the Chief Minister reiterated that the government is actively restoring urban water bodies to ensure a clean environment. He appealed to all political parties and citizens to transcend political affiliations and extend wholehearted support to the Musi rejuvenation initiative.

The Chief Minister commended film actor Nagarjuna for extending exemplary support towards the revival of Thammidikunta lake. Revanth Reddy explained that the government successfully expanded the water body from a shrunken 14 acres to 30 acres, praising Nagarjuna for generously handing over two acres of private land to facilitate state restoration efforts. He declared that the revived lake will soon transform into a major tourism hub, shifting public focus from nearby Shilparamam.

He instructed HYDRAA officials and police personnel to implement robust security measures to guarantee visitor safety, emphasizing plans to foster a vibrant lake economy. Additionally, he announced that a sacred Jammi tree will be planted within the lake premises, establishing the venue as a permanent cultural location for traditional Dussehra celebrations.