Citizens, experts slam Musi project; demand public consultations
Residents and environmental experts are protesting the Musi Riverfront Development Project in Hyderabad, citing concerns over displacement and lack of transparency. Protesters argue that the buffer zones were demarcated without proper technical consultation, threatening homes that were built with legal permissions.
Why it matters
The conflict highlights the tension between urban development projects and the rights of residents to fair rehabilitation and transparent governance.
Mohammed Mustafa, a mechanical engineer in his 50s, returned to his family in the city after working overseas for 20 years. After returning, he along with his brother, built a house in New Decent Colony of Budvel just two years ago.
“The house has my 20 years of sweat and blood in it. Now, the government says it will take away my property, without showing any details or drawings of the project. If they do it, I will die along with my family,” says Mr. Mustafa resolute in his voice.
His house, within 50 metres of the Musi river’s High Flood Level, is among the five in the colony marked for takeover by the government for the Musi Riverfront Development Project.
Speaking at the meeting organised by the Musi Jan Andolan at Dharna Chowk protesting the project, Mr.Mustafa alleged that the buffer was not marked by technical experts.
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