Image source: Times of India, Hyderabad edition dated 22nd January 2025
After years of anticipation and delays, the long-awaited expansion of Hyderabad Metro’s Green Line has finally begun, marking a significant step in connecting the historic Old City to the city’s modern public transport network. The extension from Mahatma Gandhi Bus Station (MGBS) to Chandrayangutta, a crucial route for the city’s daily commuters, was originally planned for the first phase but faced multiple setbacks, including alignment disputes and property acquisition challenges.
A New Era for the Old City
The 7.5-kilometer elevated track extension, part of the Metro’s second phase, will connect key areas such as Shalibanda, Falaknuma, and Chandrayangutta. This expansion will bring modern transit infrastructure to one of Hyderabad’s most densely populated and historically significant neighborhoods, offering residents and commuters faster, more efficient transportation options.
Currently, demolition work is underway along Mir Alam Mandi Road near Charminar, where the roads are being widened to accommodate Metro pillars and stations. This marks the start of a major transformation in the Old City.
Major Milestone: Compensation and Progress
“This expansion for the Old City is long overdue and is a crucial step in integrating this historic area with Hyderabad’s modern public transportation system,” said Mr. NVS Reddy, Managing Director of Hyderabad Airport Metro Limited (HAML). “I’ve just signed 90 more cheques, which will be handed over to property owners on Wednesday. The works are going to roll ahead in full swing.”
As part of the ongoing process, compensation is being disbursed to affected property owners. In the first phase of payments, 41 owners of 34 properties received compensation totaling ₹20 crore. Metro officials estimate that the total compensation package for the expansion will be around ₹1,000 crore, covering 1,100 properties along the route.
Preserving Heritage Amid Development
Special care is being taken to ensure that Hyderabad’s rich heritage remains protected during the Metro expansion. The alignment of the Metro has been carefully planned to minimize the impact on historical buildings and structures, especially those near the iconic Charminar and other cultural landmarks.
Despite the positive aspects of the project, residents have expressed mixed feelings about the demolition of properties. “While the demolition of our properties is difficult to accept, we understand the necessity for development,” said one local resident. This sentiment reflects the delicate balance between preserving history and modernizing infrastructure to meet the needs of a growing city.
What This Means for Commuters
The expansion of the Metro line is expected to drastically reduce travel time between the Old City and other parts of Hyderabad, benefiting thousands of daily commuters. The new route will also provide seamless access to the airport, making it more convenient for travellers from the Old City to reach Rajiv Gandhi International Airport quickly and efficiently.
As work on the Metro expansion continues, Hyderabad is taking a significant leap towards improving its public transportation system, making it more accessible and efficient for all. With the Old City now set to be connected to the broader Metro network, this marks a new era for residents, commuters, and the city’s growth as a whole.
