Hyderabad,(thestates.news)| In a significant boost to infrastructure in the Secunderabad Cantonment area, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has approved the utilisation of Rs 303.62 crore for various development works, following the efforts of Union Coal and Mines Minister G Kishan Reddy. This funding is linked to the proposed transfer of cantonment lands to the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA) to facilitate the construction of elevated corridors in the region.
In an important departure from the usual procedure, the land transfer compensation—provided by the Telangana state government—will not go into the Consolidated Fund of India. Instead, it will be deposited into a newly established escrow account attached to the Secunderabad Cantonment Board. This ensures that the funds will be used exclusively for local development works within the cantonment area.
Union Minister Kishan Reddy had written twice to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, requesting that the compensation be used specifically for local infrastructure. Responding positively, the Ministry of Defence has now directed the Cantonment Board to set up the escrow account and focus the expenditure on civic improvements.
Once the state government deposits the compensation amount, the Cantonment Board will begin key infrastructure projects. These include the construction of an underground sewage network, a fresh water supply system, retaining walls along canals, and the development of internal roads. Union Minister Kishan Reddy expressed his gratitude to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh for approving the use of Rs 303 crore for the welfare and development of the Secunderabad Cantonment area, an official statement said today. (UNI)
Rajnath Singh approves Rs 303 cr for development in Secunderabad Cantonment
