Hyderabad’s much-awaited Metro Phase 2B project is on the brink of an important milestone as the Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for the North City and Fourth City metro lines near completion.
These reports, which have been under preparation for months, are expected to be submitted to the state government shortly. This phase will see the introduction of three crucial new corridors, which will redefine travel and connectivity in the city. According to senior officials from Hyderabad Airport Metro Rail Limited (HAMRL), the reports are currently in the final stages of review, with cost estimations and route alignments being scrutinised. Once completed, the reports will pave the way for the next phase of metro expansion. This expansion will significantly improve connectivity between key areas of the city, particularly the northern and eastern zones, and will serve as a game-changer for the city’s traffic management.
However, as the project progresses, some key changes have been made to the original plans. For instance, the proposal to introduce double-decker elevated corridors has been dropped, primarily due to the construction of a complex 600-metre tunnel at the old Begumpet Airport. The tunnel is part of the elevated corridor that will link JBS to Dairy Farm on the Medchal route, and its construction has made the addition of a double-decker system unfeasible. In light of these complications, authorities are now considering a separate elevated line specifically for the Metro. Another significant challenge facing the project is land acquisition. One of the proposed corridors from Paradise to Shameerpet Outer Ring Road (ORR) passes through land owned by the Defence Ministry in the cantonment area. This has sparked discussions between the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA) and defence officials, with the aim of resolving land-related issues and preventing delays.
Despite these hurdles, planning for the metro expansion remains robust. A holistic approach is being taken to ensure seamless connectivity and integration with other transport infrastructure in the city. This includes the laying of metro tracks along central parts of newly proposed roads, particularly the six-lane road to Fourth City, which promises to streamline transportation in this growing area. In the context of the city’s traffic concerns, the Hyderabad Metro’s expansion is a welcome move. The network’s current extension plans include a 24-km stretch from JBS to Medchal, a 21-km corridor connecting JBS to Shameerpet, and a 41-km line leading to Future City. These lines will provide a much-needed alternative to road travel, especially as traffic congestion becomes an increasing issue in the city’s rapidly expanding suburbs.
Notably, field surveys have already been completed to assess traffic flow, environmental impact, soil conditions, and future growth projections. These surveys are vital for ensuring that the new corridors not only reduce current congestion but are also equipped to handle future demand. As part of this effort, the areas around Medchal and Shameerpet are expected to experience a notable reduction in traffic-related pollution, making these corridors key to Hyderabad’s broader environmental goals. Once fully operational, Phase 2B of the Hyderabad Metro will add an impressive 162 km to the city’s metro network, stretching across eight corridors. By 2028, daily ridership is expected to reach 8 lakh passengers, with the figure likely to increase to 12 lakh by 2030. These developments are in line with the city’s ambitions to enhance its urban infrastructure, reduce traffic bottlenecks, and promote sustainable, eco-friendly transport options.
With such ambitious growth, the Hyderabad Metro project is poised to significantly reshape the city’s transport landscape. As these final reports are prepared and submitted, city planners, transport experts, and officials are hopeful that these improvements will contribute to a smoother, more efficient commuting experience for Hyderabad’s residents. In the coming years, the metro expansion will not only offer a quicker means of travel but will also help reduce the city’s carbon footprint, aligning with the broader goal of creating a zero-net-carbon, sustainable, and green urban environment.
In terms of governance, there is a strong belief that this project will be instrumental in fulfilling the aspirations of the city’s citizens for better mobility. With rigorous planning, commitment to addressing logistical challenges, and a clear vision for future growth, Hyderabad is on track to become one of the most modern and well-connected cities in the country.
Hyderabad Metro Phase 2B to Add Three New Corridors for Future Growth
