The Hyderabad Metro Rail project in Old City is advancing rapidly with pillar marking initiated and the number of affected properties significantly reduced. HMRL is conducting regular reviews, disbursing compensation, and coordinating utility relocation. Efforts are underway to ensure smooth execution while reducing disruption in the densely populated section from Darulshifa to Chandrayangutta.
Introduction:
The much-awaited Metro Rail corridor in Hyderabad’s Old City is seeing rapid progress as groundwork intensifies along the 7.5 km stretch from Darulshifa to Chandrayangutta. Hyderabad Metro Rail Limited (HMRL), under the leadership of HAML Managing Director Shri NVS Reddy, has kick-started the pillar marking phase while majorly minimising the number of affected properties through realignment strategies.
Realignment Reduces Property Acquisition Burden:
Initially, the metro expansion was expected to impact around 1,100 properties in the densely packed urban stretch. However, through meticulous engineering and route redesign, this figure has been brought down to approximately 900 properties—a reduction of over 18%. So far:
- 412 properties have received formal awards,
- 380 demolitions have been completed, and
- Rs. 360 crore has been disbursed in compensation.
Shri NVS Reddy emphasized that the route was carefully planned to avoid major displacements and to ensure smoother execution.
Daily Reviews and Cautious Execution in Densely Populated Areas:
The construction zone poses multiple challenges due to close-packed housing and extensive overhead utility lines. Shri NVS Reddy acknowledged the difficulty, stating, “We are carrying out the work mainly at night to minimize public inconvenience. The demolition and utility relocation are being done with utmost care to prevent service disruptions.”
Daily meetings with engineering and revenue teams ensure that progress is continuously monitored and impediments are resolved in real-time.
Pillar Marking and Ground Preparations Begin:
Metro construction is moving into its active phase with several key developments:
- Pillars will be constructed at 25-meter intervals to support the elevated viaduct.
- Geotechnical testing is scheduled to assess soil bearing capacity at identified sites.
- DGPS surveys have been completed to avoid disrupting heritage and sensitive structures.
- Temporary Bench Mark (TBM) points have been set for accuracy during the construction phase.
Utility Shifting and Underground Cabling in Progress:
In line with the vision of Chief Minister Shri Revanth Reddy, all overhead electricity lines are being shifted underground. Departments such as the Water Board, GHMC, and TSSPDCL have been directed to submit estimates for this utility migration. Simultaneously, stormwater drains, sewerage, and water pipelines are being strategically relocated from the metro alignment path.
Metro officials and departmental field staff are working in close coordination to prevent service interruptions and expedite pre-construction works.
Conclusion:
The Old City Metro expansion is now advancing rapidly towards the transformation with minimized property impact, active ground preparations, and integrated utility planning. Hyderabad Metro’s strategic approach showcases a commitment to inclusivity, safety, and engineering excellence. It ensures that the heritage-rich Old City becomes seamlessly connected to the broader metro network.
Source: HMRL – Press Release | Images Credit (representational): HMRL
[Nominations are Open] Submit your nomination (free) for the 7th Rail & Metro Awards 2026: Link
Timely insights, straight to your WhatsApp—stay updated with ease!
Stay connected to the rail industry—timely news, straight to Telegram!
