Hyderabad: The Telangana High Court has recently issued a status quo order on the Rajiv Rahadari road expansion project. In response, local residents are urging the State government and Secunderabad Cantonment officials to provide clear details about the project and offer fair compensation. They are requesting equivalent-value land for the properties that may be acquired as part of the project.
Residents have expressed mixed feelings about the temporary relief provided by the order. While it eases immediate concerns for property owners in areas like Rajiv Rahadari and Bowenpally, uncertainty remains about the extent of road widening. The government has not yet clarified how wide the road will be expanded. Initially, a 200-foot widening was proposed for the elevated corridor project. However, property owners have suggested reducing it to 100 feet. Despite this, no final decision has been made, leaving many questions unanswered about the project and the compensation process.
Some property owners pointed out that while residents of Rajiv Rahadari and Bowenpally have received temporary relief, other areas, including Alwal and Lothkunta, are still facing uncertainty. Markings for the project have already begun in these areas, but there is no clarity on what will happen to their properties.
Telukunta Satish Gupta, the Convener of the Rajiv Rahadari Property Owners’ Joint Action Committee (JAC), emphasized the need for transparency. He stated, “This relief is only temporary. While we are not against development, the government should clearly communicate the amount of land required for the project. It would be better if fair compensation in the form of equivalent-value land is provided to those whose properties are being acquired.”
Suresh, a resident of Bowenpally, echoed similar concerns. He said, “The status quo order offers temporary relief, but the government must ensure a fair resolution. Many homes and livelihoods are at stake. If NH-44 is not planned for a 200-foot expansion, why should the Karimnagar highway? The government should review the plan and strike a balance between development and the welfare of affected residents and businesses.”
Residents are now hoping for a clear and balanced response from the State government to address their concerns and ensure a fair approach to the road expansion project.
