As a major public transportation initiative to address the traffic congestion in Hyderabad city, Phase-I of Hyderabad Metro Rail project was successfully completed against many odds by the Hyderabad Metro Rail Ltd., which is a fully owned PSU of the Government of Telangana. Spanning over 69 KM with an investment of Rs.22,000 Cr., Hyderabad Metro Rail is the world’s largest Metro Rail project ever implemented in a Public Private Partnership (PPP) mode.
Although the ground works of the project were started in June 2012, the progress of the project could not pick up pace due to several hurdles. After the formation of the Telangana State and the new government in 2014, these hurdles were cleared and the project was put on fast track. With proactive policies and initiatives of HMRL and the Telangana Government, this mega project was commissioned for operations in the 5 stages starting from November 2017.
Hyderabad Metro Rail, envisaged as an ideal transport solution for Hyderabad city, heralds a true revolution in terms of public transportation system. Spanning 69 km across three busy corridors, this project is redefining the manner in which a project of mass scale is executed for the benefit of the public.
Ease of Travel for Passengers
Hyderabad Metro Rail is becoming quite popular among all age groups and different sections of the society. It is an asset for the city by transforming the way in which a public transportation system operates in a global city. There are many facilities for specially challenged and visually impaired, endearing itself to commuters while women’s safety is always a priority. Moreover, there is a wide range of measures taken by the metro authorities to provide a safe travel facility.
The security policies and other related manuals are updated from time to time based on operational needs and commuter feedback.
The provision of exclusive coaches for ladies in Hyderabad Metro is a step in the right direction. Strict action is taken against any unauthorized entry into these coaches. In the instance of any unauthorized entry into women-only coaches, there is swift reporting mechanism, using WhatsApp to inform the station controller of the approaching station so that the authorities can take action immediately.
There is a dedicated WhatsApp number provided for reporting. Round-the-clock CCTV surveillance of metro station premises is an assurance of safety from Metro Rail for the commuters. Metro rail authorities also maintain a constant vigil with CCTV surveillance in stations and coaches.
During any emergency while on metro rail, commuters can quickly seek help by pressing the ‘Call’ button, placed in all metro coaches. Luggage screening is carried out through scanning machines before embarking on metro while manual frisking is also carried out separately for both men and women.
There are security staff deployed at critical locations, who monitor the stations and the public constantly to keep a strict vigil. Security staff ensures that commuters stay within the yellow line at platforms so that any untoward incidents can be prevented while boarding the train. Moreover, contingency plans and emergency manuals are practiced and implemented during unforeseen situations, and the staff is well equipped to handle different emergencies as and when they arise.
