Hyderabad: Parking areas at Hyderabad’s Hitec City and Lakdikapul railway stations have come under scrutiny after commuters reported that private travel buses are occupying spaces intended for rail passengers, resulting in traffic bottlenecks and reduced accessibility. The issue has renewed attention on balancing commercial use of station premises with efficient public transport access in a rapidly growing metropolitan region.
Passengers using both stations have complained that buses parked for extended periods restrict vehicle movement near station entrances, making drop-offs, pick-ups and access to parking facilities more difficult during busy travel hours. At Lakdikapul, commuters say congestion has become particularly severe, with buses occupying sections of the approach road and limiting smooth circulation for private vehicles and public transport. Similar concerns have been raised at Hitec City railway station, where parking areas are reportedly being used by long-distance private buses waiting for scheduled departures. According to commuters, vehicles remain stationed for several hours, reducing the availability of designated parking spaces for rail passengers. The Hyderabad railway station parking issue has gained significance as both stations serve growing commuter volumes linked to the city’s expanding residential, commercial and IT corridors. Urban mobility experts note that railway stations function as critical multimodal transport hubs, where efficient access is essential for encouraging greater use of public transport.
South Central Railway officials have stated that parking facilities at both locations operate under valid contractual arrangements that generate revenue for the railway administration. However, transport planners point out that commercial parking activities should be managed without compromising passenger convenience or creating safety risks around station entrances. Experts suggest that clearer parking regulations, designated bays for commercial vehicles and stricter enforcement of traffic management measures could help improve circulation while preserving access for rail users. They also recommend integrating station area planning with city traffic management to reduce conflicts between public transport, private vehicles and commercial operators. The Hyderabad railway station parking debate also highlights broader urban planning challenges associated with rising travel demand and limited transport infrastructure. As Hyderabad continues expanding, station precincts are expected to accommodate increasing numbers of commuters alongside taxis, buses, ride-hailing services and non-motorised transport.
Urban planners argue that station redevelopment should extend beyond platform improvements to include better parking management, pedestrian infrastructure and seamless first- and last-mile connectivity. Such measures can enhance commuter experience, reduce traffic congestion and support sustainable urban mobility by encouraging greater reliance on public transport. Authorities are expected to assess commuter concerns while balancing contractual obligations and operational requirements. Transport experts believe that coordinated planning between railway authorities and civic agencies will be essential to ensuring station areas remain accessible, safe and efficient as passenger numbers continue to grow.
