Telangana budget allocates ₹17,677 crore for urban development

The Telangana government has allocated ₹17,677 crore for the Municipal Administration and Urban Development department in its budget for 2025-26. This includes a new investment plan of ₹4,500 crore over three years aimed at boosting municipalities and urban authorities. The goal is to improve urban infrastructure and ensure sustainable development. Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister Bhatti Vikramarka highlighted the rapid urbanization in Telangana, driven by the growth of IT industries and infrastructure projects. He mentioned that the government is focusing on developing smaller cities like Warangal, Nizamabad, and Khammam. Warangal will become a center for education and healthcare, while the other two cities will focus on agriculture and manufacturing. For the capital city, the government is implementing the 'H-CITI' plan to improve urban infrastructure and manage traffic congestion. The first phase includes the construction of 31 flyovers, 17 underpasses, and 10 road expansion projects, costing around ₹7,032 crores. Additionally, beautification projects worth ₹150 crore are ongoing. An Integrated Stormwater Drainage Project has also been approved with a budget of ₹5,942 crore to manage floods and prevent waterlogging in the capital region. There is a new initiative called SPEED, which aims to fast-track 19 key projects like the Musi Riverfront Development and Metro Rail Expansion. However, specific funding for these projects has not been allocated yet. Vikramarka also discussed plans for a new Net-Zero Future City, which will cover 765 sq. km and be built between Srisailam and Nagarjuna Sagar highways. This city will feature advanced infrastructure and eco-friendly designs, including electric public transport. It will host specialized zones for technology and industry. Details on funding for this ambitious project have not been provided in the budget.