Hyderabad: Union Minister G Kishan Reddy criticized the State government for having misplaced priorities. He made this statement while addressing the media after visiting several slum areas in Amberpet and Bagh Amberpet divisions on Monday as part of the “Basti Bata” program.
During his visit, Reddy was accompanied by officials from the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC), Water Works, and Revenue Departments. He mentioned that the residents of these slum areas raised several issues. These included poor road conditions, overflowing drainage, non-functional street lights, inconsistent drinking water supply, delays in ration card distribution, inadequate pension disbursements, and a lack of housing facilities for weaker sections.
Reddy expressed his disbelief at the government’s plans to beautify the Musi River with an investment of Rs 1.50 lakh crore, while basic needs in slum areas remain unmet. He urged the government to prioritize providing essential infrastructure, such as proper roads, street lighting, and drinking water, before embarking on such large-scale projects.
He further added that while the government’s plan to build a retaining wall along both sides of the Musi River was supported, it should not involve demolishing the homes of the poor. According to Reddy, people living in slums also deserve access to basic amenities and a better quality of life.
