The Government of Telangana has reached out to Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) seeking financial backing for three of its most ambitious infrastructure projects, including the Rs 24,269 crore Hyderabad Metro Rail Phase 2.
During an official visit to Tokyo, the Chief Minister, accompanied by a high-level state delegation, met with JICA’s senior management to deliberate on loan-based support for expanding Hyderabad’s urban transport and rejuvenating its historic yet long-neglected Musi River. According to senior officials present at the meeting, the state is seeking JICA funding for nearly 48 per cent of the total capital outlay for the Metro Phase 2, translating to around Rs 11,693 crore. The proposal is currently under consideration by the central government and adheres to India’s foreign borrowing protocols. The move signifies Telangana’s assertive pitch to position Hyderabad on the global urban map by leveraging international partnerships and aligning with sustainable development goals. The Chief Minister made a strong case for Hyderabad as a future-ready city by underlining its pro-investment policies and growing appeal to global investors. He also showcased how integrated infrastructure—spanning rail, road and ecological restoration—can together redefine the liveability index and mobility outcomes in the state capital.
At the heart of the discussions was also the proposed rejuvenation of the Musi River, a centuries-old water body that has long suffered from neglect and pollution. The project aims not only at restoring ecological balance but also creating inclusive public spaces, reducing urban heat, and improving air quality—goals that align closely with both India’s climate commitments and JICA’s sustainable development mission. The delegation also pitched for JICA support in constructing radial roads to link the Outer and Regional Ring Roads, thereby decongesting the urban core and promoting equitable regional development across Hyderabad’s expanding peripheries.
The Telangana delegation included top-level officials from the industries, IT and urban development departments, including the Managing Director of Hyderabad Metro Rail and the Commissioner of Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority. Their participation lent weight to the government’s vision of delivering long-term infrastructure dividends and building climate-resilient cities. What makes this initiative particularly relevant is the state’s intent to balance hard infrastructure growth with environmental restoration and equitable urban mobility.
As global funding agencies increasingly prioritise investments in projects with climate, social, and governance (ESG) metrics, Telangana’s proposal signals a well-rounded approach to urban planning. If approved, JICA’s involvement would not only inject the necessary financial muscle into Telangana’s infrastructure pipeline but also act as a vote of confidence in Hyderabad’s ambition to evolve into a sustainable global city. While the final decision rests with the Government of India and JICA’s internal assessment process, the groundwork laid by Telangana could offer a replicable model for other states seeking climate-aligned urban development.
Telangana seeks Japanese aid to fund Hyderabad Metro Phase 2 and Musi project
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