“Revanth Reddy Slams Critics, Clarifies No Financial Stake in Musi Project”

Revanth Reddy Clarifies No Financial Interest in Musi Project, Criticizes Opponents

Hyderabad October 17

Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has strongly refuted allegations that he has any financial interest in the Musi project. Addressing a media conference at the state secretariat, Reddy clarified that the project, valued at Rs. 141 crore, is not a beautification initiative as some critics have claimed. He expressed frustration over accusations against him and questioned why certain individuals are “spewing poison” on the Musi project, which he insists is aimed at improving the lives of Hyderabad residents and those in the surrounding areas.

“No Financial Benefit for Me”

Reddy firmly stated that he has no personal stake in the project, reiterating that his goal is to increase government revenue to benefit the poor. Dismissing claims that the project is a large-scale money-making scheme, he noted that the total agreement value is Rs. 141 crore, not the exaggerated figures being circulated. “Is this the Kaleshwaram project to cost one and a half crores?” he quipped, in response to inflated figures reported by detractors.

The Project is Not for Beautification

Refuting claims that the Musi project is simply a beautification endeavor, Reddy emphasized that it is focused on tackling serious environmental and health hazards. He pointed out that the pollution of the Musi River is affecting not only Hyderabad but also areas such as Nalgonda. “If people don’t want the project, they should come forward and say so,” he said, but added that continuing to delay it would only harm the city further.

Reddy expressed anger at what he perceived as false and self-serving criticism from opposition figures, accusing them of trying to block development initiatives. He stated that those accusing him of selfishness are themselves guilty of corruption.

Defending the Agreement

Addressing questions about the company involved in the project, Reddy highlighted that the firm responsible, Meinhardt, also worked on significant projects like the Sardar Patel statue in Gujarat and the Samathamurthy statue in Hyderabad. He questioned why it was an issue now that the same company is handling the Musi project.

“Don’t Poison the Project”

Reddy, visibly frustrated, called on his critics to stop obstructing progress. “Musi is being poisoned not only by pollutants but also by the false narratives being spread about it,” he remarked. He urged all stakeholders to support the initiative, stating that he is ready to cancel the tender if there is genuine opposition, but warned against falling into the traps set by political opponents.

Warning of Future Urban Flooding

Citing examples of other Indian cities, such as Chennai and Bengaluru, which face significant flooding during heavy rains, Reddy stressed the urgency of moving forward with the project. He referenced the recent flooding in Khammam, Vijayawada, and Wayanad as examples of the kinds of issues Hyderabad could face if the Musi River is not properly managed.

“Even Jail Won’t Stop Me”

In a final, defiant note, Reddy brushed off threats of legal consequences, stating that even if his opponents managed to send him to jail, “the food in jail would be a waste.” He accused the opposition, particularly the BRS leaders, of trying to block every development project after losing power. He described them as “bandits who robbed the state under the guise of power” and dismissed their attempts to stop the Musi project.

Focus on Supporting Residents

Reddy reiterated his commitment to helping the thousands of residents living in the buffer zones along the Musi River. He criticized the lack of vision from his opponents and urged people not to fall for political stunts. “We must have a clear plan for the city and the river, or we risk being left behind in history,” he concluded, emphasizing that the project will move forward with the cooperation of all parties.