Old City Metro Project Accelerates with Rs 125 Crore Sanction

The Telangana government sanctioned Rs 125 crore on December 1 for metro rail connectivity to Hyderabad’s Old City, prioritizing the 5.5-km stretch from MGBS to Chandrayangutta via Darulshifa, Purani Haveli, Etebarchowk, Alijakotla, Mir Momini Daira, and Haribowli. Funds go directly to Hyderabad Airport Metro Limited (HAML) under the 2025-26 budget’s "Metro Connectivity to Old City" scheme, with monthly expenditure reports required. Groundwork like pillar marking and geotechnical investigations is underway, following property acquisitions and road widening.

Project Benefits

This corridor reduces affected properties from 1,100 to 900 through route redesign, tackling severe traffic congestion and pollution in the densely packed area. Residents gain faster access to the rest of the city, enhancing job opportunities, local commerce, and tourism to landmarks like Charminar. Metro integration promises a permanent solution to narrow roads lined with historic structures, temples, and mosques that hinder expansion.

Broader Infrastructure Push

Alongside, the government approved Rs 663.50 crore assistance to GHMC for H-CITY schemes, professional tax compensation, and Rs 2.61 crore for land acquisition, with full Rs 2,654 crore BE allocation now authorized. Chief Secretary K Ramakrishna Rao directed immediate release via finance and treasury departments.