Hyderabad: Chief minister A Revanth Reddy on Saturday laid the foundation for reconstruction of the Machileshwara Veerabhadra Swamy and Omkareshwara Swamy temple complex on the banks of the river Musi at Manchirevula near Gandipet, marking the beginning of the Musi rejuvenation project.The Omkareshwara temple would be built and modelled on the lines of the historic Ramappa temple. It would be developed as ‘Dakshina Kashi (Kashi of south) by constructing Shiva temples over an area of eight acres at an estimated cost of 700 crore, noting that the region has a history spanning nearly 1,400 years, he said, after laying the foundation along with deputy chief minister Bhatti Vikramarka.Starting the Musi project with works on temples was being viewed as a strategic move by the Congress govt against the backdrop of opposition to the project from BRS and BJP. If they oppose the project now, Congress would have the opportunity to term their opposition to the development of Shiva temples.“This project is neither for votes nor notes. I am giving my word that we will not seek votes in the name of the temple or the project and appeal to the opposition not to oppose the project,” Revanth said, addressing the gathering after laying the foundation amidst vedic chants.Stating that Hyderabad is known for its communal harmony and it will be reflected in the Musi project as well, the CM, while referring to the historic Mecca Masjid near Charminar, Golden Temple of Amritsar and the historic church in Medak, said a grand mosque would be constructed at Puranapul-Charminar area, a glorious gurudwara at Gowliguda-Sikh Chawni area and a church at Nagole as part of the Musi project along the river stretch.Revanth also mentioned a case was filed against Musi river development in the National Green Tribunal. “This case has been filed by the son of a Akka (sister, in an obvious reference to BRS MLA Sabitha Indra Reddy) from the region. This akka has enjoyed all posts, including that of cabinet minister due to the blessings of the people. Now, she and her son are going against the will of the people to cleanse Musi. I appeal to her to ensure that the case in the NGT is withdrawn if not the people may socially boycott her,” he said.Revanth vowed to Lord Shiva that the govt would go ahead with the project come what may, terming it as Shiva deeksha taken up by the govt to complete the project. “The party which is playing backdoor politics will lose the existing status too if it goes against the project,” he said in an indirect reference to BRS.Revanth also explained how civilisations flourished near rivers and world class cities developed on the seashores, and that Hyderabad should not go Delhi’s way on the pollution front. Many previous govts tried to revive the Musi river, but failed due to various reasons. “We consider it is our good fortune to have got the opportunity to develop the Musi riverfront. I am confident that God will clear all hurdles created by the opposition parties and that we will complete the project,” he added.
