CBCID Probe on Illegal Mining

In a major development, Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy announced a comprehensive CBCID inquiry into alleged illegal mining and sand extraction activities across Telangana since its formation (June 2, 2014), triggering intense debate in the Legislative Assembly. 

The response from CM was after heated exchanges between the government and BRS, which demanded immediate action against alleged irregularities involving Raghava Constructions linked to Revenue Minister Ponguleti Srinivas Reddy.

Speaking in the Assembly, the Chief Minister stated that the probe will cover mining operations from June 2, 2014, onwards, ensuring a thorough investigation into past and present activities. He emphasised that the CBCID will examine not only extraction sites but also transporters, middlemen, and any officials found complicit or negligent. The inquiry will include allegations linked to sand mafia operations in Sircilla and illegal granite mining cases, with specific individuals and companies named for investigation.

The government has expressed readiness to probe the alleged sand mafia activities in Sircilla, including the role of former MP Santosh Rao and his father, Ravinder Rao. It has also agreed to investigate claims related to illegal granite mining linked to former minister Gangula Kamalakar. Companies associated with Rajya Sabha MP Vaddiraju Ravichandra, along with Raghava Constructions, will also come under the scanner.

The Chief Minister pointed out that the move aims to safeguard public assets, ensure fair availability of construction materials for welfare schemes, and curb profiteering that burdens low-income beneficiaries. He assured that strict legal action will be taken against those found guilty, while legitimate and regulated mining operations will continue without disruption.

Supporting the government’s stance, Industries Minister Duddilla Sridhar Babu alleged that illegal mining activities were rampant during the previous BRS regime, including operations carried out without environmental clearances. He questioned the opposition’s resistance, stating that if the government is willing to probe even past irregularities, there should be no objection.

Minister Vakiti Srihari echoed similar sentiments, asserting that large-scale irregularities occurred over the last decade under BRS rule. He highlighted issues such as illegal stone crushers around Hyderabad and reiterated the government’s readiness to take action against all violations. He also questioned the opposition’s past inaction on related issues, including incidents affecting marginalised communities.

However, the announcement drew sharp criticism from BRS leaders, particularly senior MLA T. Harish Rao. He accused the Chief Minister of making misleading statements in the Assembly and demanded immediate action against alleged irregularities involving Raghava Constructions. Harish Rao questioned the government’s intent, alleging inconsistencies in statements regarding ownership and links to political figures. He further demanded that concerned ministers resign before any fair investigation can proceed.

The BRS also called for an impartial probe into all allegations, including those related to environmental damage near water bodies such as Gandipet and Himayat Sagar. The opposition insisted that if the government has nothing to hide, it should constitute an independent committee to ensure transparency.

‘Block Musi Project and face Shiv Tandav’

Revanth Reddy unveils Dakshina Kasi Vision

Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy on Saturday announced the development of “Dakshina Kasi” as part of the ambitious rejuvenation of the Musi River, positioning it as a major spiritual, cultural, and tourism hub. The announcement was made during a public event at Manchirevula, where the Chief Minister laid the foundation stones for the Omkareshwara Swamy and Veerabhadra Swamy temples. Further CM warned that any political obstruction to the Musi project will not be tolerated, reaffirming the government’s commitment to its completion. He cautioned that those creating hurdles would face a “Shiv Tandav” like response, indicating strict and decisive action.

The temple complex will be developed across eight acres with an estimated investment of Rs 700 crore. Highlighting the region’s rich heritage of over 1400 years, the Chief Minister stated that the government has taken up the responsibility of preserving and reviving this legacy for future generations. He expressed confidence that with divine blessings, the project would progress smoothly.

Reiterating his government’s commitment, the Chief Minister said the Musi rejuvenation project would be completed despite obstacles. He criticized opposition parties for attempting to stall development through legal interventions, including cases in the National Green Tribunal. Questioning their intent, he asked whether those obstructing development have the moral right to represent the people.

Emphasizing inclusive development, the Chief Minister announced that a mosque and a church would also be constructed in the Musi catchment area, symbolizing religious harmony. He noted that civilizations historically flourished along rivers, and the revival of Musi and Esa rivers is essential for restoring ecological balance and supporting economic activity in Hyderabad.

The Chief Minister expressed concern that both rivers had turned into dumping grounds due to prolonged neglect, pushing Hyderabad toward an environmental crisis similar to heavily polluted cities. He warned that failure to act could endanger public health, particularly in downstream regions such as Nalgonda, where pollution related issues have already impacted communities.

As part of long term planning, the government intends to divert waters from the Godavari River to ensure continuous flow in Musi, preventing stagnation and improving water quality. The riverfront will also be developed into a major tourist and spiritual destination.

CM issues Shiv Tandav warning

Issuing a strong and uncompromising message, Revanth Reddy warned that any attempt to obstruct the Musi River project for political gains would not be tolerated. He said the government is fully committed to completing the project and cautioned that those creating hurdles would face a “Shiv Tandav” like response, signalling strict and decisive action against disruptions.

He appealed to all political parties, public representatives, and stakeholders to extend full cooperation for the success of the Musi rejuvenation project. He urged opposition leaders to withdraw legal cases and support the initiative in the larger interest of public welfare, warning that people may reject those who hinder development.

Metro Takeover Plan passed, BRS cries Foul in Assembly

Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy on Saturday made an announcement in the Telangana Legislative Assembly, declaring that the State Government has decided to take over the Hyderabad Metro Rail project from Larsen & Toubro (L&T). Presenting a resolution in the House, the Chief Minister stated that the decision was driven by persistent hurdles in expanding the metro network under the existing arrangement. He emphasized that the move is aimed at strengthening public transport infrastructure, improving commuter convenience, and enhancing Hyderabad’s stature as a global city.

The resolution was passed in the Assembly, with the Chief Minister noting that it received unanimous approval from members. He assured that the government is preparing comprehensive plans to modernize and expand the metro system in line with international standards, ensuring sustainable urban development and seamless connectivity across the city.

As detailed in the official statement, the Hyderabad Metro Rail Phase I project was initially developed as a Public-Private Partnership in 2010, covering three major corridors over 69 km. While the project saw phased operational success between 2017 and 2020, expansion efforts stalled in subsequent years despite rapid urban growth, added IT & Industries Minister Sridhar Babu sharing more details on the subject.

The Central Government made operational integration between Phase I and proposed Phase II corridors a prerequisite for approval. However, L&T declined to participate in Phase II expansion or sign the required agreements, citing its exit from PPP projects. Instead, the company expressed willingness to exit Phase I, provided it was compensated for its equity and debt exposure, he said.

Following negotiations, the State Government agreed in principle to take over the project by assuming approximately Rs. 13,000 crore in debt and settling equity through a one time payment. A Committee of Secretaries, supported by financial and technical due diligence agencies, recommended the takeover to ensure seamless metro integration, better passenger experience, and long term financial stability. The State Cabinet subsequently approved the acquisition, with the total transaction value capped at Rs.15,000 crore. The takeover is expected to enable unified control of both Phase I and Phase II, accelerating approvals and future expansion plans, Sridhar Babu stated.

BRS cries foul

The announcement drew sharp criticism from T. Harish Rao, who questioned the manner in which the resolution was passed. He alleged that the approval was not truly unanimous and accused the government of bypassing proper legislative discussion. Rao argued that claiming consensus without consulting opposition members was undemocratic.

Despite these objections, the Assembly recorded the resolution as approved, marking a crucial step in the State Government’s plan to assume control of Hyderabad Metro and shape its future development trajectory.