CM cites Osman Sagar, Himayat Sagar and the city’s historic institutions, saying Hyderabad must protect its architectural legacy while pursuing modern development
HYDERABAD, November 11: Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy on Wednesday highlighted the contribution of the erstwhile Nizam government to Hyderabad’s civic development, recalling the construction of Osman Sagar and Himayat Sagar reservoirs and the city’s historic public infrastructure.
Speaking at the National Education Day and Minority Welfare Day celebrations in Hyderabad, the Chief Minister urged people to recognise the role played by earlier administrations in shaping the city’s water systems and urban landscape.
“The Nizam government built Osman Sagar and Himayat Sagar. The Musi riverfront was also developed during that period. Go and see the work that was undertaken in those days,” he said, recalling the city’s historic development.
Revanth Reddy also referred to landmarks and institutions including Charminar, Mecca Masjid, Salar Jung Museum, City College, the City Library, Osmania General Hospital and the British Residency as part of Hyderabad’s rich architectural, cultural and institutional heritage.
A city shaped by several historical periods
Hyderabad’s heritage reflects contributions from different periods and administrations. Charminar and Mecca Masjid date to the Qutb Shahi period, while the Asaf Jahi Nizams oversaw major civic and institutional developments in the city. The British Residency belongs to the colonial era, and Salar Jung Museum was established after Independence.
Osman Sagar, also known as Gandipet, and Himayat Sagar were developed in the aftermath of the devastating 1908 Musi floods, becoming important parts of Hyderabad’s water infrastructure.
Preserving heritage while developing the Old City
The Chief Minister’s remarks came as he outlined his government’s plans for infrastructure development in the historic parts of Hyderabad. He described the Old City as the “Original City” and said the government was committed to addressing its long-standing connectivity and civic needs.
He referred to the proposed Metro Rail extension towards Chandrayangutta and said the government had decided to preserve the century-old Osmania General Hospital building rather than demolish it.
Revanth Reddy also spoke about the proposed Musi river development, saying the government wanted to improve the river corridor while reviving the historic identity of the city.
His remarks underscored the importance of recognising Hyderabad’s layered history and ensuring that modern infrastructure projects do not erase the city’s architectural and cultural legacy.
Image: Charminar, Hyderabad.
