HYDERABAD: Prominent social and environmental activist Medha Patkar is currently on a visit to Hyderabad. Over the past two days, she toured the Musi River basin, interacting with residents displaced due to the Musi River rejuvenation project. Her visit has sparked discussions on the impact of the project and the plight of affected communities.
Today, Medha Patkar met with the Telangana Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Commission at the B.R.K. Bhavan. The meeting included Commission Chairman Kodanda Reddy, along with members K.V.N. Reddy, Bhavani Reddy, and Gadugu Gangadhar. Discussions focused on issues faced by farmers losing agricultural land and displaced families due to the Musi project.
Government Initiatives for Farmers and Displaced Residents
The Rythu Commission explained that the Telangana government, under Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, is committed to farmers’ welfare. Several key initiatives were highlighted, including:
- Rs 2 lakh loan waiver for farmers
- Rs 500 bonus for agricultural produce
- Rythu Bharosa and Athmeeya Bharosa welfare schemes
For those displaced by the Musi River rejuvenation project, the commission assured that the government is prepared to provide:
- Double-bedroom houses for affected families
- Alternative land or financial assistance for those who lost agricultural land
- Compensation packages for displaced residents
Additionally, officials stated that CM Revanth Reddy is working with dedication on the Fourth City project and other developmental initiatives.
Medha Patkar’s Recommendations
During the meeting, Medha Patkar emphasized that the Musi River revival should be carried out with active participation from local communities. She suggested that the government engage in continuous discussions with people living in the river basin and ensure proper rehabilitation measures for the displaced.
