The Hyderabad Metro Rail Phase-II Project is set to transform public transportation in Hyderabad by expanding the metro network to cover an additional 76.4 kilometers. This ambitious project, estimated at Rs. 24,269 crore, will be a collaborative venture between the Government of Telangana and the Government of India. Approved through a recent administrative order, the expansion aims to connect key areas, improve public mobility, reduce traffic congestion, and enhance air quality in Hyderabad.
Hyderabad Metro Rail Project Phase-II for a length of about 76.4 km at an estimated cost of Rs.24,269 Cr – Taken up as a JV project of Government of Telangana and Government of India Administrative sanction Orders GO 196 Dated: 02-11-2024 issued.
Phase-I Success and the Vision for Phase-II
Phase-I of the Hyderabad Metro Rail project, spanning 69 kilometers across three dense traffic corridors, has been a remarkable success. Launched as one of the world’s largest metro projects in the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) mode, it has significantly eased daily commutes for over 500,000 passengers. The positive impact of Phase-I laid the foundation for Phase-II, designed to serve the needs of more communities and promote equitable urban development across Hyderabad.
In light of these achievements, the Government of Telangana reviewed the previously approved Phase-II plans. The new approach, refined through updated traffic studies and discussions, prioritizes accessibility and addresses the needs of Hyderabad’s growing population. The revised Phase-II plan outlines six new corridors, primarily as extensions of existing lines, to improve connectivity in key areas.
Detailed Overview of Phase-II Corridors
The Hyderabad Metro Phase-II Project has been divided into two main segments: Part A and Part B, covering a total length of 116.4 kilometers.
Part A – Primary Expansion Corridors (76.4 km)
- Corridor IV: Nagole to Shamshabad Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) – 36.8 km
- Corridor V: Raidurg to Kokapet Neopolis – 11.6 km
- Corridor VI: MGBS to Chandrayangutta (Old City Corridor) – 7.5 km
- Corridor VII: Miyapur to Patancheru – 13.4 km
- Corridor VIII: LB Nagar to Hayathnagar – 7.1 kmTotal for Part A: 76.4 km
Part B – Future Expansion Corridor (40 km)
- Corridor IX: RGIA to Fourth City (Skill University) – 40 kmGrand Total: 116.4 km
For Part A, the expansion of 76.4 kilometers, valued at Rs. 24,269 crore, will be developed as a 50:50 joint venture between the Government of Telangana and the Government of India. Field surveys are ongoing for Corridor IX, while detailed alignment and cost assessments are underway to finalize plans for the future.
Funding and Execution of Phase-II
The Hyderabad Metro Rail Phase-II Project’s funding model is carefully structured to ensure smooth execution:
- Government of Telangana (GoTG): Rs. 7,313 crore (30%)
- Government of India (GoI): Rs. 4,230 crore (18%)
- Debt from International Agencies (JICA, ADB, NDB, etc.): Rs. 11,693 crore (48%)
- PPP Component: Rs. 1,033 crore (4%)
Hyderabad Airport Metro Limited (HAML) has been tasked with overseeing the project, ensuring that each phase is completed on schedule and upholds quality standards.
Key Features and Benefits of Phase-II Expansion
The Hyderabad Metro Rail Phase-II Project brings numerous benefits to residents and visitors. The new lines will integrate more areas, including high-traffic regions like Gachibowli and the airport, enabling greater accessibility and convenience for commuters. Additionally, the project includes an interchange station at Raidurg, connecting to the Outer Ring Road, which will streamline connectivity to outlying parts of the city.
The Elevated Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS)
Alongside the metro expansion, Hyderabad is introducing an elevated Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS). Spanning 20 kilometers between Kokapet Neopolis and KPHB Colony Metro Station, this elevated BRTS will be built by HAML and the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA). This addition will further support Hyderabad’s public transport ecosystem by providing efficient transit options for shorter distances.
Environmental Impact and Traffic Decongestion
Hyderabad’s heavy reliance on buses and private vehicles has strained its infrastructure and contributed to rising pollution levels. By expanding the metro, the city aims to reduce road congestion and improve air quality, creating a healthier and more sustainable environment. Phase-II of the metro rail system, with its comfortable and dependable service, is expected to attract more residents to public transportation, thereby alleviating traffic and cutting emissions.
Key Highlights of Hyderabad Metro Phase-II
- Line Length: Approximately 70 km
- Status: Approved by the State Cabinet; final approval from the Central Government is pending
- Type: Rapid transit
- Estimated Cost: Rs. 24,200 crore
- Ownership: Hyderabad Metro Rail
- Operator: Hyderabad Airport Metro Limited (HAML)
Hyderabad Metro Phase-II: Updates on Previous Plans
The revised plans for Phase-II have restructured the initial proposal, retaining certain lines while eliminating others. Notably, the extension of the Blue Line from Raidurg to RGI Airport remains, while other lines have been replaced with more strategically aligned routes.
New Lines Added in Phase-II
- Tarnaka to ECIL: 7 km, with parts potentially built underground
- Red Line Extension (LB Nagar to Hayathnagar): 7 km
- Red Line Extension (Miyapur to Patancheru): 13 km
- Blue Line Extension (Nagole to Shamshabad Airport): 28 km
- Blue Line Extension (Raidurg to Gachibowli to Shamshabad Airport): 30.7 km
The state cabinet’s approval on October 26, 2024, represents a significant milestone in the project, although the Detailed Project Report (DPR) still awaits final clearance from the central government.
Conclusion
The Hyderabad Metro Rail Phase-II Project represents a transformative vision for public transport in Hyderabad. By extending metro services to underserved areas, introducing elevated BRTS routes, and developing new interchange stations, the project will enhance accessibility, reduce environmental impacts, and facilitate smoother commutes for millions. As Hyderabad expands, this project will play a crucial role in promoting sustainable urban mobility and improving the quality of life across the city.
