V Hanumantha Rao Questions Centre's Stance on Hyderabad Metro Phase-II Expansion
Senior leader V Hanumantha Rao has questioned Union Minister G Kishan Reddy over the central government's alleged obstruction of the Hyderabad Metro Rail Phase-II project, demanding clarity on the release of a critical Rs 13,600-crore loan.
Highlights
- •V Hanumantha Rao questions Union Minister G Kishan Reddy's opposition to the Hyderabad Metro expansion.
- •The state government is struggling to access a Rs 13,600-crore loan sanctioned by the IRFC.
- •CM A Revanth Reddy has requested central assistance or an NOC to proceed independently.
- •Concerns have been raised regarding political bias in the allocation of infrastructure development support.
The status of the Hyderabad Metro Rail project has become a major point of political contention as senior leadership questions the central government's approach to the expansion initiative. V Hanumantha Rao, an advisor to the state government, has openly challenged the stance of Union Minister G Kishan Reddy regarding the proposed second phase of the metro development.
Stalemate Over Hyderabad Metro Phase-II
The central issue involves a significant infrastructure loan of Rs 13,600 crore, which was sanctioned by the Indian Railway Finance Corporation (IRFC). According to state officials, the current administration is facing substantial hurdles in accessing these funds, which are critical for the takeover and expansion of the transit network. Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy has publicly expressed frustration, noting that despite repeated formal requests for cooperation, the central authorities have yet to facilitate the release of the necessary financing.
In response to these delays, the state government has issued a firm request to the central administration. The Chief Minister has asked for either immediate assistance in securing the loan disbursement or, alternatively, the issuance of a no-objection certificate (NOC). Obtaining an NOC would empower the state to move forward independently, allowing them to pursue the Hyderabad Metro Rail expansion works without reliance on central funding mechanisms.
Political Implications and Regional Equity
V Hanumantha Rao highlighted a perceived disparity in how federal resources are distributed among various regions. Comparing the situation to projects in Gujarat and Visakhapatnam, he alleged that the central government prioritizes infrastructure initiatives in states governed by the ruling political party. This pattern, he argued, contradicts the national vision of balanced and inclusive growth.
The advisor emphasized that providing support for urban transport and essential development activities is a fundamental responsibility of the central government. Furthermore, V Hanumantha Rao cautioned that this obstructionist approach regarding the Hyderabad Metro Rail project could eventually have electoral ramifications for the Bharatiya Janata Party. As the city continues to expand, the demand for efficient public transit remains a top priority for local residents, making the resolution of this funding deadlock a significant issue for both state and national stakeholders.
