Medha Patkar's Presence Near Musi River Triggers Police Alert
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Synopsis
Medha Patkar's visit to a house near the Musi River triggered a police alert, sparking concerns about the Musi Riverfront Development Project and potential evictions affecting local residents.
Key Takeaways
- Medha Patkar visited a home near the Musi River.
- Police presence increased due to her visit.
- Concerns about the Musi Riverfront Development Project.
- Opposition parties claim potential displacement of over 100,000 people.
- Telangana government plans extensive river development.
Hyderabad, March 3 (NationPress) Prominent environmental advocate Medha Patkar visited a residence in the vicinity of the Musi River in Hyderabad, causing a significant police response on Monday.
A large contingent of police officers arrived at a home in Shankar Nagar, located in the Old Malakpet region, after receiving reports of her presence.
This visit fueled rumors that she might inspect the Musi Riverfront Development Project and engage with residents who could be impacted by the initiative.
Quickly responding, police, including female officers, rushed to the scene. Although the activist informed them she was merely visiting a friend, they advised her to vacate the area.
Subsequently, the police escorted her away from the banks of the Musi River.
Known for her role in the Narmada Bachao Andolan, Medha Patkar was in town to address the all-India gathering of the National Alliance of People’s Movements (NAPM).
In Shankar Nagar, authorities initiated house demolitions last October for the Musi River project, resulting in the destruction of approximately 163 homes.
The government of Telangana has devised plans for development along a 55 km stretch of this river. Many residents living near the riverbanks are apprehensive about potential evictions.
Opposition parties have asserted that the project might displace over 100,000 individuals. They have also raised concerns regarding the government's proposed expenditure of Rs 1.5 lakh crore on the initiative.
Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, envisioning a development model akin to the Thames River in London, has defended the project, stating that it aims to rejuvenate the river.
He remarked that the Musi, once a source of drinking water, has deteriorated into a toxic drain.
The Chief Minister noted that more than 1,600 homes have been identified for demolition within the Musi riverbed, and the government has allocated housing and financial assistance to those displaced by the river. Furthermore, he announced rehabilitation plans for 10,000 families living in the buffer zone of the Musi.
