The Government of Telangana, under the Municipal Administration and Urban Development (MA&UD) Department, has approved an official delegation to visit Seoul, South Korea. The purpose of the visit is to study riverfront development projects from October 21, 2024, to October 24, 2024, with travel days excluded. The costs for this visit will be met through the funds of the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA), aligning with their urban rejuvenation objectives.
Importance of Riverfront Development for Telangana’s Urban Growth
Riverfront development plays a vital role in urban revitalization, creating public spaces that boost the quality of life in cities. With growing concerns about sustainable development and environmental preservation, Telangana is keen to study global best practices. Seoul, a world leader in urban planning and environmental sustainability, offers a prime case study for the state. The Telangana government aims to apply learnings from Seoul to enhance its own urban projects, particularly in Hyderabad.
Delegation Members for the Seoul Visit
The delegation to Seoul consists of prominent government officials, media representatives, and members of the legislature. The key individuals participating in this study tour are as follows:
- Sri Chatanala Kean Kumar – Member of Parliament, Government of Telangana
- Sri Kale Yadalah – Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA), Government of Telangana
- Manthripragada Hanumantha Rao, IAS – Special Commissioner (I&PR), Government of Telangana
- Sri Karri Sdram – Director of Media & Communications, Government of Telangana
- Sri Nirnmakayala Vamsi Srinkras – Bureau Chief, Deccan Chronicle
- Sri Mahesh Kodde – Senior Assistant Editor, Times of India
- Smt. Vadlamudi Swathi – Senior Assistant Editor, The Hindu
- Sri Bolli Kartheek – Senior Reporter, New Indian Express
- Sri Mandapalle Laxmi Narasimha Reddy – Bureau Chief, Eenadu
- Sri Uppuloon Gita Naga Murali Krishna – Bureau Chief, Andhra Jyothi
- Sri B. Arun Kumar – State Bureau Reporter, Velugu
- Sri Dokuti Venkateshwar Reddy – City Bureau Chief, Saakshi
- Sri Mohammed Ismail Atoned – Senior Reporter, The Siasat Daily
- Sri Mohammed Iftequar All Eternaad – Senior Correspondent, Eternaad Daily
- Sri Maripani Prabhakar – Senior Correspondent, TV9 News
- Sri Ramesh Donthu – Bureau Chief, NTV Telugu News
- Sri Margam Srinivas – Bureau Chief, TV5 Telugu News
- Sri Jonnada Yadaiah – State Bureau Reporter, V6 Telugu News
- Sri Modhala Narsinga Rao – Bureau Chief, ABN
- Sri Pochiraju Sriram Murthy – Bureau Chief, ETV
Objectives of the Delegation’s Visit to Seoul
The primary goal of this visit is to understand how Seoul has successfully transformed its riverfronts, including the iconic Cheonggyecheon Stream. Cheonggyecheon’s revival is a benchmark in sustainable urban design, balancing development with ecological restoration. The Telangana delegation hopes to gain insights that can be applied to similar projects in Hyderabad, particularly along the Musi River.
The Musi River, which flows through Hyderabad, has faced years of pollution and degradation. The state government has prioritized the river’s rejuvenation as a key aspect of its urban development agenda. Learning from Seoul’s integrated approach to riverfront development will allow Telangana to incorporate innovative solutions to environmental issues while promoting urban growth.
HMDA’s Role in Telangana’s Urban Rejuvenation
The HMDA has been instrumental in the urban planning and development of Hyderabad and surrounding areas. Their involvement in this delegation underscores their commitment to transforming Telangana’s urban landscape. The funds for this visit will come directly from HMDA’s budget, aligning with the authority’s long-term mission to rejuvenate Hyderabad and other urban areas under its jurisdiction.
This study tour is part of a broader strategy to promote sustainable development, enhance public spaces, and create eco-friendly urban infrastructure. The HMDA aims to replicate successful international models like Seoul’s riverfront development to make Hyderabad a world-class city.
Conclusion: The Future of Telangana’s Riverfronts
The Telangana government’s decision to send a high-level delegation to Seoul marks a significant step toward the state’s urban transformation goals. The lessons learned from this visit will guide future riverfront projects, particularly the revitalization of the Musi River. By embracing international best practices, Telangana can position itself as a leader in sustainable urban development in India.
The visit to Seoul is not just a study tour; it is an investment in the future of Telangana’s cities.
