Telangana Chief Minister Mr. A Revanth Reddy laid the foundation stone for the Old city metro rail project at Falaknuma on Friday, March 8th, 2024 in the presence of Hyderabad MP Mr. Asaduddin Owaisi and other dignitaries. HMRL MD NVS Reddy and other senior officials were also present. The Phase I Metro rail work in a 5.5 km stretch from MGBS to Falaknuma of corridor II Green Line JBS to Falaknuma was not taken up earlier.  After formation of the new government, CM Mr. Revanth Reddy focused his attention on the Old City Metro and directed HMRL officials to take it up on high priority.

Highlights:

• The completion of metro rail in this stretch will now make the entire Green Line (Corridor II) operational, from JBS to Falaknuma via MGBS.
• The alignment will pass through Darulshifa – Puranihaveli – Etebarchowk – Alijakotla – Mir Momin Daira – Haribowli – Shalibanda – Shamsheergunj – Aliabad and ends at Falaknuma Metro Rail station as originally planned.
• There would be 4 stations namely Salarjung Museum, Charminar, Shalibanda and Falaknuma.
• Although the alignment and the stations are about 500 metres away from the monuments, two of the stations are named after Salarjung Museum and Charminar due to their historical importance.
• Around 1100 properties will be affected in road widening up to 100 feet as per the master plan and to 120 feet at the station locations.
• The project is expected to cost about Rs.2,000 Cr including for road widening and shifting of the utilities, he stated.
• Engineering solutions are being worked out to ensure that no religious or heritage structure is affected in this stretch either in road widening or in Metro Rail construction.
• The line will be further extended by another 1.5 km from Falaknuma to Chandrayangutta, which will be developed as a major interchange station on the newly planned Airport line of Nagole – LB Nagar – Chandrayangutta – Mailardevpally -P7 Road – Shamshabad Airport.

Importance of Metro in Hyderabad’s Old City

The launch of the metro in Hyderabad’s Old City marks a significant milestone in the city’s transportation infrastructure. This development is of utmost importance as it brings efficient and convenient connectivity to an area that has long struggled with traffic congestion and limited transportation options. The metro will not only provide a faster and more comfortable mode of transportation but also open up new avenues for economic growth and development in this historic neighbourhood.

The Old City of Hyderabad is known for its rich cultural heritage, bustling markets, and iconic landmarks. However, the lack of proper transportation facilities has often deterred visitors from exploring this vibrant area. With the introduction of the metro, this is set to change. Residents and tourists alike will now have easy access to the Old City, allowing them to experience its charm and beauty without the hassle of navigating through congested roads.

The metro will also play a crucial role in reducing the city’s carbon footprint. As more people choose to travel by metro instead of private vehicles, there will be a significant decrease in air pollution and traffic congestion. This will not only benefit the environment but also enhance the overall quality of life in the Old City.

Benefits of Metro in Hyderabad’s Old City

The metro in Hyderabad’s Old City brings a plethora of benefits for both residents and visitors. One of the key advantages is the time-saving aspect of metro travel. With the metro, commuters can bypass the congested roads and reach their destinations in a fraction of the time it would take by other means of transport. This will not only save valuable time but also reduce the stress associated with daily commuting.

Another major benefit of the metro is its reliability and consistency. Unlike other modes of transport, such as buses or autos, the metro adheres to a strict schedule, ensuring that passengers can plan their journeys with confidence. This reliability is particularly crucial for those who rely on public transport for their daily commute or for tourists exploring the Old City.

Additionally, the metro provides a comfortable and hassle-free travel experience. The trains are equipped with modern amenities and offer a smooth ride, allowing passengers to relax and enjoy their journey. The stations are designed to be accessible and user-friendly, making it convenient for people of all ages and abilities to use the metro.

Impact of Metro on the Local Economy

The launch of the metro in Hyderabad’s Old City is expected to have a significant impact on the local economy. Improved connectivity and accessibility will attract more visitors to the area, boosting tourism and increasing footfall in the markets and businesses of the Old City. This, in turn, will create new job opportunities and generate revenue for the local community.

The metro will also spur infrastructure development around the metro stations. As businesses realize the potential of the increased footfall, they are likely to invest in upgrading their facilities and expanding their offerings. This will not only enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of the area but also attract new businesses and investors.

Additionally, the metro will encourage the growth of small-scale industries and entrepreneurship in the Old City. With improved connectivity, manufacturers and traders will find it easier to transport goods, leading to increased production and trade activities. This will contribute to the economic development of the area and uplift the living standards of the residents.

Infrastructure Development Around Metro Stations in Hyderabad’s Old City

The launch of the metro in Hyderabad has not only brought improved transportation but also triggered significant infrastructure development around the metro stations. The metro stations act as catalysts for urban renewal and rejuvenation, attracting investments and spurring economic growth in their vicinity.

In addition to commercial development, there is also a focus on creating green spaces close to metro stations.  Furthermore, the metro stations serve as transportation hubs, connecting different modes of transport. This integration of different transport systems encourages multimodal commuting and reduces dependency on private vehicles, leading to a more sustainable and eco-friendly transportation network.

Metro Launch Event and Its Significance

The metro launch event in Hyderabad’s Old City was a momentous occasion that marked the beginning of a new era in transportation for the city. The launch event was attended by dignitaries, government officials, and the general public, all eager to witness this historic moment.

The significance of the metro launch event goes beyond its transportation implications. It symbolizes progress, modernization, and the commitment of HMRL (Hyderabad Metro Rail Limited) to providing its residents with world-class facilities. The launch event was a celebration of the collective efforts that went into making the metro a reality and a demonstration of the city’s determination to embrace the future.