In a high-stakes meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy prioritized urgent state matters, including the SLBC tunnel collapse, infrastructure development, and unresolved bifurcation commitments. The discussions underscored the need for Central support to accelerate Telangana’s growth trajectory.
Overview of Revanth Reddy’s Meeting with PM Modi
Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, accompanied by IT Minister D. Sridhar Babu and senior officials, met Prime Minister Modi in New Delhi on Wednesday. The agenda focused on securing Central assistance for critical state projects, addressing the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act’s pending issues, and highlighting recent crises like the SLBC tunnel mishap.
This meeting marks a strategic effort by Telangana’s government to align state priorities with national resources, emphasizing collaboration between state and Central agencies.
SLBC Tunnel Collapse: Rescue Operations and Safety Concerns
A key topic of discussion was the SLBC tunnel collapse at Domalpenta in Nagarkurnool district, where eight workers remain trapped. Revanth Reddy briefed PM Modi on the ongoing rescue operations, initiated four days prior, and emphasized the need for advanced technical support to ensure worker safety.
The Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) tunnel incident has raised alarms about infrastructure safety protocols. Reddy urged the Central government to deploy specialized teams and cutting-edge equipment to expedite rescue efforts. The tragedy has spotlighted the importance of stringent compliance with construction safety standards in large-scale projects.
Infrastructure Push: Hyderabad Metro Expansion and Musi Riverfront Rejuvenation
Revanth Reddy’s vision for Telangana’s infrastructure transformation took center stage. He sought Central backing for:
- Hyderabad Metro Rail Phase-II Expansion
- A proposed 22-km extension from Shamshabad International Airport to Future City in Mucherla.
- Enhanced connectivity to suburban areas, boosting economic activity and public transportation efficiency.
- Musi Riverfront Rejuvenation Project
- Central funding to revitalize the Musi Riverfront, a project poised to transform Hyderabad’s urban landscape.
- Collaboration with HMDA, TGIIC, and HMR for feasibility studies and execution.
- Regional Ring Road (RRR) Development
- Accelerated progress on the RRR project to decongest Hyderabad and improve regional connectivity.
These initiatives align with Telangana’s goal to position Hyderabad as a global hub for trade, tourism, and technology.
Addressing Pending Bifurcation Commitments and Caste Census
Revanth Reddy pressed PM Modi to fulfill unresolved obligations under the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014. Key demands included:
- Release of Outstanding Funds: Expediting financial allocations for state projects stalled due to bureaucratic delays.
- Caste Census and BC Reservations: Conducting a comprehensive caste census to refine Backward Class (BC) reservations and ensure equitable resource distribution.
- SC Categorization: Passing legislation to subclassify Scheduled Castes (SCs) for targeted welfare schemes.
The Chief Minister stressed that honoring bifurcation promises is critical to maintaining regional parity and fostering inclusive growth.
Future City Project and Central Collaboration
The Future City initiative near Hyderabad’s outskirts emerged as another focal point. Revanth Reddy highlighted the need for Central partnerships to fast-track this mega-development, which aims to create a tech-driven economic corridor.
With feasibility surveys already completed by HMDA and HMR, the state seeks technical expertise and funding to commence construction. The project is expected to generate employment, attract foreign investment, and alleviate urban overcrowding.
Post-Meeting Engagements and Next Steps
Following his dialogue with PM Modi, Revanth Reddy is slated to meet Union Ministers handling Finance, Urban Development, and Water Resources. These discussions will focus on:
- Securing approvals for Metro Rail Phase-II.
- Finalizing budgets for the Musi Riverfront and RRR projects.
- Resolving inter-state water disputes linked to the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act.
The Chief Minister’s proactive approach reflects Telangana’s urgency to bridge infrastructure gaps and address socio-economic disparities.
Conclusion: A Collaborative Path Forward
Revanth Reddy’s meeting with PM Modi underscores the symbiotic relationship between state ambitions and Central support. By prioritizing rescue operations for the SLBC tunnel collapse, pushing infrastructure modernization, and advocating for bifurcation equity, Telangana aims to solidify its position as a leader in sustainable development.
As the state awaits actionable outcomes from these discussions, stakeholders remain optimistic that Central collaboration will unlock Telangana’s full potential—driving progress for its people and economy.
Keywords: Revanth Reddy PM Modi meeting, SLBC tunnel collapse rescue, Hyderabad Metro Rail expansion, Musi Riverfront Rejuvenation project, Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, Telangana infrastructure projects, caste census and SC categorization, Future City development, Central funding for state projects.
