Hyderabad to become a pollution-free city: Deputy CM Bhatti Vikramarka

Telangana’s government has taken a significant step regarding industrial land conversions, aiming to make the process more transparent and accountable. Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka said the new policy comes after previous allegations that industrial land conversions under the former BRS government were done without proper cabinet approval, benefiting only a few individuals. He added that detailed information on these conversions would soon be made public.

The Deputy CM emphasized that the new industrial land transfer policy is designed to boost state revenue while keeping Hyderabad pollution-free. He explained that the policy was finalized only after extensive consultations with senior officials and stakeholders, and a thorough review in the cabinet.

Bhatti Vikramarka highlighted that the government’s primary focus remains the welfare of the poor and that there are no plans to burden citizens with additional taxes. Under the new policy, industrial land along 80-foot roads can be converted at 50% of the standard offset rate (SOR), providing a clear and fair process. Increased conversions, he noted, would also lead to higher government revenue.

The Deputy CM also pointed out that areas like Nacharam, Moula Ali, Uppal, Gudimetla, Balanagar, and Kukatpally, originally planned as industrial zones outside the city, are now surrounded by residential neighborhoods due to Hyderabad’s expansion. To prevent pollution issues, he stressed the need to relocate industries outside the Outer Ring Road.

Drawing a comparison with Delhi, Bhatti Vikramarka said that Hyderabad aims to avoid severe pollution problems through proactive measures and a comprehensive, transparent industrial land conversion policy.