Telangana Minister Defends Industrial Land Conversion Policy to Prevent Hyderabad from Becoming Next Delhi

Telangana Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka has forcefully defended the Hyderabad Industrial Lands Transformation Policy (HILTP) against criticism from the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS).

The contentious policy permits the conversion of industrial lands within and surrounding the Outer Ring Road into multi-purpose zones for various developments.

During a comprehensive media briefing following a crucial Cabinet meeting, the Deputy Chief Minister positioned the policy as essential for creating a pollution-free Hyderabad, while accusing the previous administration of conducting non-transparent land conversions for personal gain.

His defense directly counters BRS allegations of a "Rs 5 lakh crore scam," shifting the narrative toward environmental protection and governance transparency.

"The primary objective behind implementing the Industrial Land Conversion Policy is to transform Hyderabad into a pollution-free city while generating state revenue," Vikramarka explained.

He emphasized the thorough process behind the policy: "We conducted in-depth discussions with senior officials, consulted with stakeholders, and held extensive Cabinet deliberations. Unlike BRS leaders, we are not converting industrial land for individuals or personal benefits."

The Congress Minister leveled serious accusations against the BRS, claiming they conducted land conversions selectively: "BRS leaders executed industrial land conversions exclusively for their associates and chosen beneficiaries. There was neither a formal policy nor Cabinet approval. They converted lands inside industrial parks solely for preferred individuals."

Vikramarka issued a direct challenge: "We will soon disclose complete details regarding how many industrial land conversions the BRS leaders implemented and who received those properties."

Perhaps most compelling was the Deputy Chief Minister's reference to Delhi's environmental crisis: "In Delhi, pollution levels became so severe that schools and government offices needed to close. We want to prevent such a situation in Hyderabad."

He provided historical context, noting that industrial areas like Nacharam, Moula Ali, Uppal, and Jeedimetla were established 50 years ago on Hyderabad's outskirts but are now surrounded by dense residential developments. Relocating these industries has become necessary, not optional.

"To liberate Hyderabad from pollution, industries must now be relocated beyond the Outer Ring Road. Courts have recommended freeing cities from pollution Red Zones and Orange Zones," he added.

Vikramarka also highlighted the financial implications, explaining that revenue from the policy will fund the Congress government's welfare initiatives: "Extensive welfare programs must reach the underprivileged. While expenditures increase annually, we don't intend to burden citizens with additional taxes. The government must generate revenue responsibly."

He detailed the transparent fee structure: "Those with 80-foot road access will be permitted conversion at 50% of the Standard Market Rate. Increased industrial land conversion will boost government revenue."

Industries Minister D Sridhar Babu reinforced these points, stating: "Our government is committed to balanced and sustainable urban development. We refuse to let Hyderabad become another Delhi, choked with industry and pollution in its urban core."

"This policy isn't about land grabbing; it's about unlocking economically constrained, strategically located assets. The generated revenue will build next-generation industrial parks outside the ORR, ensuring our city's future remains green and viable," Babu explained.

These statements directly address accusations from BRS working president KT Rama Rao, who claimed the Congress government was orchestrating a massive land scam through HILTP, potentially misappropriating up to Rs 5 lakh crore by regularizing 9,292 acres of prime land at undervalued rates.

KTR criticized the valuation method, arguing that charging 30% to 50% of the Sub-Registrar Office value significantly undervalues the true market worth of these properties in prime areas like Balanagar and Jeedimetla. He warned that a future BRS government would nullify all HILTP transactions.

The government countered these criticisms by emphasizing urban renewal needs. The policy addresses industrial estates established decades ago that now exist within dense residential and commercial zones. Many facilities have become unviable or underutilized due to outdated technology, market changes, and environmental incompatibility.

Officials clarified that 25% of conversion fee revenue will be specifically allocated for developing modern industrial parks and infrastructure beyond the ORR. They also accused the BRS of hypocrisy, noting that the previous administration had issued Government Orders in August 2023 granting freehold rights over certain leased industrial lands.

Government projections suggest the policy could generate between Rs 4,000 to Rs 5,000 crore if all eligible applicants pursue conversion.

The controversial policy has set the stage for extended political and legal confrontations, with the BRS pledging to challenge it through public demonstrations and court proceedings.