Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy has directed officials to prepare plans for ring roads around all district headquarters in Telangana, mirroring the Outer Ring Road surrounding Hyderabad, and to ensure these are linked to national and state highways. This directive, issued during a review of road development, also targets making Hyderabad a traffic-problem-free city through effective development of connecting roads.
Officials were instructed to initiate works on identified roads with "right earnest," with a focus on improving connectivity across the state to allow travel from Hyderabad to any part within a stipulated time. The Chief Minister also called for joint reviews with the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) and the Revenue Department to establish a clear policy framework and avoid administrative hurdles in road development projects.
Broader Road Development Initiatives Emerge
The state government has reportedly decided to develop a total of 13,137 km of roads. This extensive network is divided between the Panchayat Raj department (7,947 km) and the Roads & Buildings (R&B) department (5,190 km), structured into 17 packages. The initial phase will see the development of 5,190 km of roads, with an estimated cost of approximately ₹6,478.33 crore. The government emphasizes a commitment to providing road connectivity from every village to mandal headquarters, district headquarters, and the state capital.
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The strategy involves utilizing the Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM) for road works, with indications that opportunities will be extended to smaller contractors. This approach is part of a larger vision for "Telangana Rising," which includes advancements in infrastructure, industries, education, and healthcare, alongside welfare programs. Notably, the government has pointed to substantial arrears left by the previous administration concerning development works.
Other Regional Road Projects and Declarations
Across India, various states are undertaking significant road infrastructure projects. In Tamil Nadu, Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has announced plans to develop an additional 10,000 km of rural roads over the next two years, under the Chief Minister's Village Roads Development Scheme, at an estimated cost of ₹4,000 crore. This initiative is framed as crucial for improving rural trade efficiency and reflects a broader goal of developing all districts, sectors, and societal segments.
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Meanwhile, in Mumbai, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has stated that all city roads will be fully concretized by April 2027. This ambitious project involves using a specific material, 'M60', for "Ultra Thin White Topping," with the roads expected to last 25-30 years and be free of potholes and accidents. However, allegations of financial irregularities have surfaced regarding the ongoing road concretization works in Mumbai.