Hyderabad: The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) has issued notices to actor-politician Nandamuri Balakrishna, senior Congress leader K. Jana Reddy, and several other property owners regarding the acquisition of land for the expansion of roads around KBR Park, one of the city’s busiest traffic zones.
The road-widening initiative is part of the GHMC’s comprehensive master plan to address traffic congestion in the upscale areas of Banjara Hills and Jubilee Hills. The project entails the widening of a 6.5-kilometer stretch, connecting Road Number 12, Banjara Hills junction near Virinchi Hospital, and Jubilee Hills Check Post, passing through KBR Park.
Land Acquisition Details
As per the notices, GHMC has requested property owners’ consent to surrender portions of their land for the project. Nandamuri Balakrishna’s property is expected to contribute 20 feet, while 30 feet may be taken from K. Jana Reddy’s property.
According to GHMC officials, 306 properties have been marked for acquisition, with 87 already acquired. GHMC has allocated ₹150 crore for the road-widening project.
Elevated Corridors to Complement Road Expansion
In addition to road widening, GHMC plans to construct elevated corridors to further ease traffic in the area. A budget of ₹210 crore has been set aside for these infrastructural upgrades. The plan includes a one-way flyover at the NFCL Junction in Banjara Hills and a three-lane, unidirectional underpass at the TV9 Junction.
The current road width, which varies between 50 and 100 feet, will be expanded to 100–120 feet in key sections. The combined initiatives aim to provide long-term solutions to traffic woes in the region, which has witnessed a rapid increase in vehicular density over the years.
Public Reaction and Challenges
While the project promises to transform traffic management in the city, it has also sparked concerns among affected property owners. The GHMC has urged stakeholders to cooperate, highlighting the project’s importance for the city’s infrastructure development.
KBR Park, a protected area known for its ecological significance, has been at the center of urban development debates. Environmental activists have previously raised concerns over potential ecological impacts, though GHMC has assured adherence to environmental regulations.
The road expansion and elevated corridor projects are expected to significantly improve connectivity in Hyderabad’s prime areas, benefitting thousands of commuters daily.