Hyderabad Airport Metro Rail Limited (HAML) has reduced the number of properties impacted by Phase II of the city’s metro expansion project. The reduction—from 1,000 to 900 affected properties along a key 7.5 km stretch in the Old City—follows strategic engineering redesign and realignment aimed at limiting disruption to existing neighbourhoods.
Officials confirmed that the new alignment was drawn up with a view to preserving as many structures as possible, especially in historically dense and residential areas. The Hyderabad Metro Rail Phase II project, which spans 76.4 km across five corridors, is being executed at a projected cost of ₹24,269 crore. It includes several extensions to the existing 69.2 km network under Phase I. Once approved by the Centre—where the project is undergoing inter-ministerial appraisal—it will be co-funded through a joint venture model. As of now, compensation amounting to ₹360 crore has already been distributed to property owners whose buildings fall under the acquisition zone. Officials have issued land acquisition awards for 412 properties, and demolition work has been completed for 380 of them. The remainder are being processed under an expedited acquisition and clearance plan.
Engineering teams are already conducting groundwork at several future metro pillar locations, with markings completed and surveys in progress. The viaduct-carrying pillars will be spaced approximately 25 metres apart. A Differential Global Positioning System (DGPS) survey has also been carried out to finalise pillar positions while avoiding any damage to heritage or sensitive sites. To ensure seamless integration with the city’s existing infrastructure, a dedicated geotechnical agency will begin soil testing at identified locations. Meanwhile, coordination with other departments—such as GHMC, the Water Board, and TSSPDCL—is underway to relocate utilities like sewerage, stormwater lines, water pipelines and electrical wiring. All overhead electric lines along the metro alignment will be moved underground, in line with the Telangana government’s vision for a more climate-resilient city.
The move to realign the corridor and reduce the number of demolitions represents a notable shift in how large-scale urban transport projects are being executed. By minimising displacement, the government aims to avoid prolonged litigation, reduce costs, and maintain public trust—ensuring the project’s timely rollout without compromising its human impact. With detailed planning underway and field operations gaining pace, Phase II of Hyderabad’s metro system is shaping up to be more than just an infrastructure upgrade. It is also a demonstration of how urban growth can be managed with empathy, equity, and long-term sustainability in mind.
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