It is reported that the Congress government is considering transferring the management of all state roads to private companies as part of a strategy to alleviate the state’s financial strain. Plans are reportedly underway to secure loans totaling Rs. 30,000 crore by using toll collections as a source of revenue.
This matter is set to be discussed and potentially decided at the upcoming cabinet meeting which will be held at the Secretariat on Saturday. The new RVR Act is also expected to be reviewed and possibly approved during this session, along with the establishment of a village-level revenue system.
The Cabinet is also anticipated to grant the Irrigation Department permission to borrow Rs. 645 crore from the World Bank under the Dam Rehabilitation and Improvement Project (DRIP) scheme. Additionally, a loan collection of Rs. 7,000 crore for rural electrification may be approved, and a bank guarantee from millers might be considered.
While there is a demand for two Dearness Allowances (DAs) to be sanctioned for state government employees, CM Revanth Reddy reportedly informed union leaders on Thursday that discussions on financial issues would be postponed until after March next year, casting doubt on the likelihood of DA approval.
Other agenda items include assessing the financial state of the government and strategies to increase revenue amid a challenging economic climate. Departmental tax increases may be proposed, starting with the Excise Department, where price hikes are expected to be discussed.
In addition, the legitimacy of HYDRAA and compensation for Musi river flood victims will likely be addressed. Instead of issuing an ordinance for the new revenue law, the government may convene a two to three-day assembly session next month to finalize decisions, with dates expected to be confirmed during the meeting.