The much-anticipated extension of the Hyderabad Metro Rail into the Old City began on January 21, with road-widening efforts underway to facilitate the project. Demolition of structures, primarily businesses along Moghalpura’s Safina Hotel to Victoria Hotel stretch, commenced early Tuesday morning. The project, part of the Hyderabad Metro Rail Phase 2 expansion, will connect the Mahatma Gandhi Bus Station (MGBS) to Falaknuma and further extend to Chandrayangutta. After years of delay, the Telangana government has allocated a budget of ₹24,269 crore for the metro’s expansion, aiming to overcome the challenges that previously halted the project.
The Old City Corridor, measuring 7.5 kilometers with six stations, is a crucial extension of the Green Line (JBS-MGBS). Authorities have ensured that no religious or historical structures will be impacted by the construction. Property owners affected by the project were compensated at a rate of ₹65,000 per square yard, alongside structural value and resettlement benefits. Out of 175 identified evictees, 40 have already received compensation. The Telangana government has also proposed five additional corridors spanning 76.4 kilometers as part of this phase, with routes connecting areas like LB Nagar to Hayat Nagar and Raidurg to Kokapet.
Once completed, this metro expansion will provide a significant boost to connectivity in Hyderabad, particularly in the Old City, improving access to key hubs like Rajiv Gandhi International Airport. The project is expected to be completed within four years, transforming Hyderabad’s public transportation system. With its ambitious plans, the metro expansion aims to preserve the region’s heritage while paving the way for modern infrastructure.
