Tourism, Investments Take Centre Stage in Future City Plan

Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy has outlined an ambitious plan to transform the state's tourism landscape, with a special focus on developing the forest-rich stretches of Bharat Future City into internationally acclaimed tourism destinations.

At a high-level review meeting held at the Bodhi Pavilion in the MCR HRD Institute , the Chief Minister reviewed the progress of key tourism projects and directed officials to fast-track their execution. Emphasizing tourism as a major driver of economic growth and employment generation, he called for a coordinated approach among departments to create world-class visitor experiences across Telangana.

A key highlight of the review was the proposal to develop forest lands within Hyderabad's urban limits and the Future City region into large-scale eco-tourism hubs . Revanth Reddy instructed officials from the Tourism and Forest Departments to work together in creating sustainable tourism destinations that balance environmental conservation with economic activity. He also advocated replicating the successful Gurramguda Eco Park model in other parts of the city to expand green recreational spaces.

The Chief Minister stressed the need to enhance the appeal of Hyderabad's existing tourist attractions. He directed officials to upgrade Taramati Baradari with modern facilities and develop Durgam Cheruvu into a full-fledged tourism destination capable of attracting both domestic and international visitors. Plans were also reviewed for the modernization of the historic Manjeera and Dilkusha Guest Houses , with a focus on improving hospitality standards and visitor amenities.

Under the state's Tourism Hub Development Programme , Vikarabad has been identified as a priority destination. Revanth Reddy called for accelerated development of the Sri Veerabhadra Swamy Temple , describing religious tourism as a key component of Telangana's tourism strategy. He suggested establishing a dedicated governing body for the temple on the lines of the administration model followed at Yadagirigutta , with the aim of improving infrastructure and visitor management.

The Chief Minister also proposed the development of Urban Forest-based eco-tourism projects within the CURE (Comprehensive Urban Regeneration Ecosystem) zone. To ensure timely execution, he instructed officials to appoint dedicated officers and closely monitor project progress.

In a move aimed at preserving and promoting Hyderabad's heritage, Revanth Reddy directed officials to prepare plans for converting historic structures such as the Puranapul Bridge into tourism attractions. He suggested exploring pedestrian-friendly redevelopment options and alternative traffic arrangements to create vibrant public spaces around heritage landmarks.

The meeting further reviewed preparations for the proposed Global Investment Summit scheduled for December. The Chief Minister instructed officials to begin groundwork immediately and establish high-level coordination committees to attract investments into tourism, hospitality and related infrastructure sectors.

With Telangana positioning itself as a destination for sustainable urban development, heritage conservation and eco-tourism , the latest initiatives signal the government's intent to build a tourism ecosystem that complements the state's broader vision for Future City and long-term economic growth.