President Droupadi Murmu Arrives in Hyderabad for Southern Sojourn
Hyderabad, December 16, 2024: President Droupadi Murmu will commence her five-day southern sojourn in Hyderabad on Tuesday, December 17, 2024. She is scheduled to arrive at the Air Force Station Hakimpet at 4:30 PM, where she will be welcomed by Telangana Governor Jishnu Dev Varma, Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, his Cabinet members, and senior officials.
The President will travel by road to Rashtrapati Nilayam at Bolarum in Secunderabad, where she will stay until December 21. The historic Rashtrapati Nilayam, built in 1860 as a country house for the British Resident at Secunderabad, has served as the President’s retreat since 1955.
Traffic Advisory for Commuters
Hyderabad and Cyberabad police have announced traffic restrictions during her arrival to manage the anticipated congestion. Traffic is expected to be affected on Tuesday between 4:30 PM and 6:00 PM on the route from Outer Ring Road exit 7 to Hakimpet via BITS Junction and Thumkunta village. Restrictions will also be in place from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM around Hakimpet Air Force Station Y Junction, Bolarum Check Post, Navy House Junction, and Yapral Road.
Elaborate Preparations for Presidential Stay
The Telangana state government has made detailed arrangements for the President’s visit. Chief Secretary Santhi Kumari conducted a review meeting last week to ensure everything is in place. Special teams have been deployed to address specific issues:
- Snake and Wildlife Management: Snake catchers have been stationed 24/7 at Rashtrapati Nilayam, while teams have been organized to manage monkeys and remove bee hives in coordination with the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC).
- Infrastructure and Security: Extensive measures have been taken to ensure the President’s comfort and security during her stay.
Third Visit to Hyderabad as President
This marks President Murmu’s third visit to Hyderabad for the annual southern sojourn since her election in July 2023. During her stay, she will conduct official business and participate in various programs.
The tradition of the President’s southern sojourn dates back to 1955, when India’s first President, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, stayed at Rashtrapati Nilayam. Every President since then has spent at least one week annually in Hyderabad, reinforcing the city’s significance in the nation’s administrative and historical framework.
Stay tuned for updates on President Murmu’s engagements during her visit to Hyderabad.
