HYDERABAD: Tension prevailed on the outskirts of Hyderabad on Saturday after farmers and local residents protesting against the fencing of 650 acres of land earmarked for a proposed high-speed train hub in Shamshabad allegedly threw stones and chilli powder at police personnel, including an IPS officer, officials said.Several protesters, including political activists, were detained as authorities moved ahead with securing the site.According to police sources, the protesters opposed revenue department officials and personnel from the Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA), who were fencing the government land identified for the project.Police said women protesters allegedly threw chilli powder during the agitation.While no police personnel were injured, the powder fell on the clothes of two policemen.Deputy Commissioner of Police (Chevella) Yogesh Gautam washed his face and eyes with water after the incident, though officials clarified that he was not injured.The protest, which began on Saturday morning, intensified as demonstrators clashed with security personnel. Amid the commotion, a farmer allegedly fainted.Several protesters claimed that although they do not possess ownership titles, they have been cultivating the land for years and depend on it for their livelihood.They urged the government not to take possession of the land.However, a revenue department official maintained that the 650-acre parcel belongs to the government.The official said protesters were relying on an “unapproved map” showing survey numbers, which is not recognised in official records, PTI reported.The Centre recently announced high-speed rail corridors connecting Hyderabad with Pune, Chennai and Bengaluru.Chief minister A Revanth Reddy had earlier said that the state government would allot land in Shamshabad for the high-speed train hub.(With agency inputs)
