Telangana Budget 2024-25: Rs 10,000 crore allocation to boost Hyderabad's development

HYDERABAD: The Telangana Government has made a substantial budgetary allocation aimed at propelling the development of Hyderabad.

Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka, in his budget speech in Legislative Assembly on Thursday, earmarked Rs 10,000 crores in the 2024-25 state budget, with specific focus areas including infrastructure, public transport, environmental sustainability, and urban planning.

The budget highlights the expansion and modernisation of Hyderabad's infrastructure as a priority. The allocation includes Rs 500 crores for extending the Hyderabad Metro Rail network. The second phase of the Metro project will cover 78.4 kilometers, including extensions to the Old City and Shamshabad Airport, with new corridors designed to cater to the growing urban population and alleviate traffic congestion. Additionally, Rs. 200 crores have been set aside for the Outer Ring Road (ORR) development, further improving connectivity in and around the city.

Another initiative is the Musi Riverfront Development project, which has been allocated Rs 1,500 crores. The project aims to rejuvenate the Musi River, transforming it into a vibrant urban space. Plans include the creation of recreational zones, eco-friendly infrastructure, and cultural preservation sites. Inspired by international models like the Thames Riverfront in London, this project seeks to enhance the aesthetic and environmental quality of Hyderabad while providing new public spaces for residents and tourists.

The Hyderabad Disaster Relief and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA) has been allocated Rs 200 crores. This new entity will oversee disaster management and asset protection within the Core Urban Region of Hyderabad, which includes areas up to the Outer Ring Road. HYDRAA will work on preventing urban disasters and ensuring quick recovery and response mechanisms, enhancing the city's resilience to natural and man-made disasters.

The government has announced plans to develop satellite townships around Hyderabad, which are expected to ease the population pressure on the city's core areas. These townships will be equipped with essential amenities, including parks, community halls, and commercial centers. The initiative is aimed at creating self-sustaining communities that can provide affordable housing and reduce the daily commute for many residents, thereby also addressing the traffic congestion issues.

The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) and the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA) have been provided with significant allocations - Rs 3,065 crores and Rs 500 crores, respectively. These funds will be used for enhancing civic amenities, including sanitation, water supply, and public health services. The budget also includes Rs 3,385 crores for the Hyderabad Metro Water Works, ensuring a stable and clean water supply for the city's growing population.

Recognizing Hyderabad's rich cultural heritage, the government has committed to preserving and promoting the city's historical sites. The budget supports initiatives to protect and maintain heritage structures, promoting tourism and cultural activities.

Bhatti Vikramarka emphasised the government's commitment to making Hyderabad a world-class city. He highlighted the budget's focus on sustainable development, efficient public services, and infrastructural growth as essential steps toward achieving this vision. He said that the government aims to address the challenges of rapid urbanization, such as traffic congestion, inadequate public transport, and environmental degradation, through these targeted investments.