Hyderabad: Municipal Administration and Urban Development Minister K.T. Rama Rao participated in Telangana Pattana Pragathi Dinotsavam celebrations at Shilpakala Vedika in Hyderabad on Friday. The celebrations were held as part of the decennial year of Telangana State formation.
During his address, KTR spoke about the rapid development witnessed in the State, especially in cities and towns, and emphasized the exemplary progress made in municipal administration under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao. He said that the State's commitment to urban development has garnered numerous accolades and awards by the Central Government.
The Minister wholeheartedly thanked the 6.5 lakh State government employees for their exceptional efforts in successfully implementing a diverse range of innovative initiatives.
Highlighting the importance of urban areas, KTR reiterated the vital role cities play as economic engines for the nation, with Hyderabad and its surroundings contributing 45% to 50% of the State's government revenue.
The Minister acknowledged the significance of people-centric governance and the instrumental role it plays in the success of various schemes. The introduction of administrative reforms, new Municipal Panchayat Raj Act, and streamlined permissions for construction projects, such as TS-bPASS, have revolutionized governance.
Telangana was the sole state in the country to issue permits for industries and residential houses in a timely manner. The Minister said that the State government remains committed to provide holistic, integrated, inclusive and balanced administration, ensuring the welfare of all sections of society across towns and villages.
The MA&UD Minister expressed heartfelt appreciation for the dedicated efforts of the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) staff. Their unwavering commitment to progress, even during the challenging COVID-19 pandemic, was commended. He said that despite the crisis, GHMC officials actively participated in crucial programs, such as road construction, bridge building, and sanitation management, displaying unwavering dedication and putting their lives at risk. He said that the State's exemplary programs have become a benchmark for other states, contributing to the overall development of the nation.
The Minister said that the State government prioritised sanitation in cities. He said that several initiatives were launched in this direction which includes Dry Resource Collection Centers, fecal sludge management and treatment plants, and provision of public toilets. Establishment of parks, nurseries, and the creation of urban lung spaces have contributed to a notable seven percent increase in green cover across towns.
KTR also spoke about the State government's active involvement in strengthening urban lakes, their beautification and development. He also spoke about expansion plans for Metro Rail, conservation of heritage structures.
He said that the Swachh Badi initiative will be launched in every municipality across the State, where children will be taught about segregating dry and wet waste, generating compost from it, recycling, and reducing usage of plastic.
The Minister appealed to all government officials, ranging from sanitation workers to senior officials, to continue putting diligent efforts towards shaping Telangana into an ideal State.
