Hyderabad, Oct 3 (UNI) Telangana Transport and Hyderabad in-charge Minister Ponnam Prabhakar has written letter to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, seeking early transfer of defence lands to the state government for vital infrastructure projects in Hyderabad and Secunderabad. The letter, also signed by GHMC Mayor Gadwala Vijaya Lakshmi, Rajya Sabha member Anil Kumar Yadav, and Secunderabad Cantonment MLA Ganesh, expressed gratitude to the Centre for agreeing in principle to hand over certain lands for public use. The Minister said the release of defence lands would help meet the growing infrastructure needs of the twin cities and improve civic amenities. He also reminded the Defence Ministry that nearly Rs 1,000 crore in user charges was pending from the Cantonment to the Telangana government, and urged for its timely clearance to strengthen the provision of civic services in defence areas. Ponnam Prabhakar further requested the Defence Ministry to expedite the land transfer process, terming it "crucial" for implementing ongoing infrastructure and mobility projects. He also highlighted the delay in holding Secunderabad Cantonment Board elections, appealing for immediate steps to restore democratic governance and local representation. The Minister said he was hopeful that the Defence Ministry would give due consideration to these issues, which are essential for the development of Hyderabad.