Hyderabad: Residents of Madhu Park Ridge apartments in Bandlaguda Jagir staged a protest on Friday against the proposed land acquisition for the Gandhi Sarovar project under the Musi riverfront development initiative. They claimed that nearly 500 families could face displacement despite the complex having valid approvals for over two decades.The residential complex, located near Bapu Ghat, spans nearly seven acres and houses around 420 flats with close to 3,000 occupants. Many residents said they have lived there for 15–20 years and fear losing both their homes and community networks.The proposed Gandhi Sarovar Project is a 200-acre riverfront development planned as part of the Musi rejuvenation programme. The project is expected to feature a 150-metre statue of Mahatma Gandhi, along with a museum, handloom centre, meditation spaces, and recreational facilities.Residents said the land acquisition notice, issued in early February, gave them 60 days to respond but did not clearly mention buffer zone violations or include a detailed project report (DPR).Thulasi Chandu, a resident for seven years, said the apartment received approvals in 2004, with occupancy beginning in 2009 — well before the buffer zone regulations now being cited.“The notification only refers to land acquisition for the project but does not explain how our apartment affects the Musi rejuvenation works. We feel the govt is forcing residents to vacate without clarity,” she said.Residents also highlighted that the complex is home to a large number of elderly people, retired govt employees, and ex-servicemen. K Srinivas, who has lived in the complex for a decade, said, “More than 60% of residents are senior citizens, and at least 40 families belong to ex-servicemen. Relocating such families without public consultations is unfair.”Sridhar VL, a retired Indian Air Force sergeant, said relocation would severely disrupt the lives of elderly residents. “Many of us depend on nearby military hospitals and services. Our medical care, schools, and daily support systems are all here. We have been told relocation land may be provided nearby, but we fear it could be far away in areas such as Attapur or Shamshabad,” he said.GV Shekhar, secretary of the Madhu Park Ridge Owners Association, said residents were not opposed to the Musi redevelopment project but demanded transparency and proper consultation. “We support river rejuvenation, but the govt cannot take unilateral decisions without scientific demarcation of river boundaries and a concrete rehabilitation plan,” he said.Some residents also expressed concerns that the acquisition could affect property values and living standards. “Our current homes are spacious and well-planned. We worry that any new construction may disrupt the peaceful environment we have built here,” said resident Priyanka Dwivedi.Holding placards reading “Save Musi river, but save our homes too,” residents said they would consider legal options if the acquisition proceeds without a clear rehabilitation proposal.
