Hyderabad, March 18 (H.S.): A heated debate took place in the Telangana Assembly on Wednesday over the proposed Musi River rejuvenation project, with the ruling Congress and opposition Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) engaging in sharp exchanges.

During the Question Hour, members sought details about the project, including its cost and impact. IT and Industries Minister D. Sridhar Babu said the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the first phase has been completed with an estimated cost of ₹6,000 crore to ₹7,000 crore. He said around 1,435 structures are likely to be affected and the enumeration process is underway.

BRS leader K.T. Rama Rao said his party was not opposed to the project but alleged lack of transparency. He questioned the quick preparation of the DPR and demanded that it be placed before the House for discussion.

Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka Mallu rejected the allegations and said the government was committed to the development of the Musi River as part of urban infrastructure improvement. He assured that those affected by the project would be rehabilitated.

Tensions rose during the discussion as opposition members raised concerns over public consultations and rehabilitation measures. Expressing dissatisfaction with the replies, BRS members staged a walkout from the House.

The government said it was ready for a detailed discussion on the project and appealed to the opposition to cooperate in its implementation.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Indrani Sarkar