Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy has described Hyderabad as the safest metro city in India, while highlighting the infrastructure challenges faced by other major urban centres.
Speaking after inaugurating the renovated Nalla Cheruvu Lake, Reddy said the state government would continue its efforts to revive the city’s lakes and river systems despite criticism from certain quarters.
He said Hyderabad must focus on restoring water bodies and improving urban infrastructure to ensure a sustainable future for its rapidly growing population.
Comparisons with other metro cities
During his remarks, the chief minister contrasted Hyderabad with several other major Indian cities.
He said New Delhi, despite being home to national institutions such as the President, Prime Minister and the Supreme Court of India, faces severe air pollution challenges.
Reddy also pointed out that cities like Mumbai and Chennai remain vulnerable to flooding after heavy rainfall, while Bengaluru is widely known for severe traffic congestion and unpredictable travel times.
According to him, encroachment and unplanned urban growth have contributed to many of the issues affecting major Indian cities.
Focus on Musi riverfront project
Reddy reiterated the government’s commitment to the Musi River revival project, saying the initiative would continue regardless of criticism.
The Musi Riverfront Development Project aims to clean the polluted river, prevent untreated sewage from entering the waterway and redevelop around 50–55 kilometres of riverbanks.
Plans include creating green corridors, parks, pedestrian walkways and improved transport infrastructure along the river.
Debate over redevelopment plans
Supporters argue that the project could improve environmental health, strengthen flood management and generate tourism and economic opportunities for the city.
However, the initiative has also triggered criticism from activists and opposition leaders, who have raised concerns about potential displacement of residents living in informal settlements along the riverbanks.
Environmental groups have also called for detailed ecological assessments and transparent rehabilitation plans to ensure that redevelopment does not harm the river ecosystem.
Despite the debate, Reddy maintained that reviving the Musi River is essential for the city’s future and said future generations would expect strong action from today’s leaders.