Hyderabad: Musi River rejuvenation Phase 1 is likely to begin on Dasara as the Telangana government accelerates preparations for the long-awaited project. Officials have expedited the procedures needed to launch the first phase of the ambitious plan.
The state government has already issued administrative approval for ₹7,345.12 crore for Phase 1. Of the total funding, ₹4,500 crore is expected through a loan from the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
The remaining ₹2,845.12 crore will be arranged through the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA) and Telangana State Industrial Infrastructure Corporation (TGIIC). Officials have already submitted the Phase 1 detailed project report to the ADB.
The loan approval process has reportedly reached its final stage. Accordingly, the government is preparing to lay the foundation for the works around Dasara.
Musi River rejuvenation to cover two stretches
The river originates in the Ananthagiri Hills through two streams, the Musa and the Esi. Himayat Sagar stands across the Esi, while Osman Sagar, also known as Gandipet reservoir, lies across the Musa.
Both streams flow downstream from their respective reservoirs and meet at Bapughat near Langar Houz. From there, they continue as the Musi River.
Under Phase 1, development works will cover 9.2 km from Himayat Sagar to Bapughat. Another 11.8-km stretch will run from Osman Sagar to Bapughat.
Officials are planning to execute both stretches simultaneously. The works will include removing accumulated silt and waste from the river.
The project also proposes water storage facilities and boating-related amenities. Roads, landscaping, cycling tracks and foot-over bridges will come up along both sides of the river.
A major component will focus on preventing sewage from entering the river. Authorities plan to build large trunk lines and stormwater drains on both sides.
The government will turn its attention to construction of the Hyderabad Gateway after Phase 1 works begin, according to officials.
Meanwhile, preparations for the second phase have also gathered pace. Phase 2 will cover the stretch from Nagole to Gouravelli, with officials accelerating the preparation of its detailed project report.