Metro corridor works in Hyderabad’s Old City gains momentum; property impact reduced through redesign

Metro works for the MGBS–Chandrayangutta corridor in Hyderabad’s Old City have advanced, with the number of affected properties reduced from 1,100 to 900. HAML is conducting night work, and geotechnical testing is set to begin for pillar and station foundations.

Hyderabad: The road widening works for the proposed Metro Rail corridor between MGBS and Chandrayangutta in Hyderabad’s Old City have gained momentum.

HAML Managing Director NVS Reddy stated that the alignment has been carefully designed to be optimal while minimising the number of affected properties.

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“Initially, we estimated that around 1,100 properties would be impacted. However, through engineering redesign and realignment, we’ve brought that number down to about 900,” said Reddy.

So far, awards have been issued for 412 properties, and demolition work has been completed for 380 properties. Compensation totaling Rs 360 crore has already been disbursed to affected property owners.

“In dense urban area, houses are closely packed, and many overhead electricity cables and utility lines pose additional complexity. We’re proceeding cautiously to avoid disruptions and are carrying out works mainly at night to minimize inconvenience to the public,” he added.

A detailed action plan has been prepared to acquire the remaining properties and complete demolitions quickly.

On the construction front, the groundwork for starting metro works is underway. Locations for upcoming metro pillars have been identified and marking work has commenced.

The pillars, which will support the viaduct, will be spaced approximately 25 meters (about 82 feet) apart. To prepare for metro stations and pillars, a geotechnical agency has been appointed to conduct soil bearing capacity tests, which will begin shortly.