Hyderabad Metro Phase-2 Loan Approved, Awaiting Final Clearance From Centre

Hyderabad Metro Rail's Phase-2 expansion has moved a step closer to reality with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) granting preliminary consent for funding. However, the project still awaits final approval from the Union government, as confirmed by IT & Industries Minister D Sridhar Babu during a Legislative Council session on Tuesday.

During the session, BRS MLC Kalvakuntla Kavitha raised concerns about the project's progress. In response, the minister assured that the state is actively engaging with international agencies to secure the required funds. He also emphasized the role of the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, expressing optimism that private investors would participate in the venture.

Meanwhile, the discussion also covered the Musi Riverfront Development Project. Addressing concerns about delays, Sridhar Babu urged political parties to support and contribute to finalizing the Detailed Project Report (DPR). He clarified that the first phase of the project would begin with the Gandhi Sarovar Project near Bapu Ghat, with its master plan already in progress. He further assured that Musi's rejuvenation would follow a structured plan, with expert recommendations guiding the second and third phases.

On the subject of financial support, the minister revealed that Telangana has requested funding from the Union government for Musi's development, similar to the assistance provided for projects like Namami Gange and the Sabarmati Riverfront. However, he claimed that no funds had been allocated so far, calling it an example of discrimination against non-BJP-ruled states. He emphasized that Telangana, like every other state in the country, deserves fair treatment and assured that financial support and compensation would be provided to those affected by the project.

Sridhar Babu also spoke about Telangana's ambitious Future City project, which aims to emerge as a key economic hub, on par with Hyderabad, Secunderabad, and Cyberabad. He highlighted that the project is designed to drive industrial growth, generate employment, and contribute to the overall development of the state.

With Hyderabad's metro expansion and urban development projects gaining traction, the state government remains hopeful about securing the necessary approvals and funds to reshape Telangana's infrastructure and boost economic growth.