Hyderabad Plans First Model Metro Hub at JBS
In a bold leap towards transforming urban mobility, Hyderabad Airport Metro Limited (HAML) has laid the groundwork for the city’s first-ever model metro hub at Jubilee Bus Station (JBS) in Secunderabad. Expected to be operational in approximately two years, this project will feature a state-of-the-art, integrated metro hub where three metro lines converge. Spanning over 30 acres of prime land—a blend of state and defence properties—the JBS hub is set to redefine the city’s transportation and urban landscape. In an exclusive statement, HAML Managing Director NVS Reddy highlighted the project’s role in not just solving traffic congestion but also fostering a new urban activity centre that could rival global metro hubs. The project marks the beginning of a public-private partnership (PPP) model, aimed at blending efficient public transportation with world-class infrastructure.
Revolutionising Transit with Integrated Design
A key feature of the JBS transit hub will be its innovative design, which diverges from traditional metro stations by introducing three separate metro stations linked by skywalks. This will create a seamless passenger flow between the stations while optimising operational efficiency. Unlike integrated stations in cities like Delhi, where multiple lines share the same structure, the JBS hub will stand as a prime example of how to efficiently manage multi-line connectivity in a dense urban environment. In addition to its metro stations, the hub will also accommodate a revamped bus complex, with the ground level dedicated to metro services and a commercial bus terminal. The cellar parking and commercial space integration further enhance the hub’s appeal, providing convenience for commuters while offering investment potential for businesses. The design will allow for the development of office spaces, shopping malls, dining establishments, and co-working areas, contributing to the area’s vibrant economy.
A Step Towards Sustainable Urban Growth
The JBS hub is more than just an urban transportation centre; it represents a significant step towards sustainable urban development. With metro connectivity becoming a critical part of Hyderabad’s infrastructure, the project aims to reduce the city’s carbon footprint by promoting public transport over private vehicles. This project is a key component of the state’s long-term strategy to manage urbanisation while mitigating the environmental impact of traffic congestion. The PPP model employed will ensure that the infrastructure is developed with private sector investment, making the metro hub sustainable in terms of financial viability, environmental considerations, and user experience. The integration of metro lines with commercial spaces will create a transit-oriented development (TOD) model, a concept that encourages sustainable urban growth by reducing the dependency on personal vehicles. The development will feature eco-friendly construction materials, rainwater harvesting systems, and energy-efficient technologies to further strengthen its environmental credentials.
The Impact on Hyderabad’s Urban Landscape
Hyderabad’s metro system has been growing steadily, with public demand for metro services soaring. The JBS project comes at a time when the city is expanding rapidly, necessitating improvements in infrastructure to support the increasing population. By integrating metro services with commercial development, the JBS hub will not only cater to the transportation needs of commuters but also create a dynamic urban centre where business, leisure, and culture intersect. Similar projects in global cities like Tokyo have demonstrated the potential of metro hubs to be more than just transport points; they can become cultural and economic epicentres. As the city aims to become a global metro hub, the JBS transit station will serve as a prototype for future urban developments that prioritise connectivity, sustainability, and community integration.
