Hyderabad: Pillar markings for the Hyderabad Metro Rail project in the Old City began at Chandrayangutta on Wednesday, signalling major progress on the long-pending corridor. According to officials, each pillar will be set up at a distance of around 30 feet. Once markings are completed, construction of the concrete pillars will begin.
Officials said around 400 of the 1,100 properties earmarked for acquisition along the 7.5-km stretch from MGBS to Chandrayangutta have been demolished so far. The remaining properties are in various stages of acquisition and clearance.
To minimise traffic disruption along this busy corridor, the engineering department is carrying out demolition work using heavy machinery at night, while clearing other properties during the day. Officials noted that several electric poles and overhead cables also need to be shifted along the route. Properties along Noorkhan Bazaar Road, Darulshifa, Purani Haveli and the Gulzar Sweets Road have mostly been cleared. Residents, officials said, have been cooperating with the process. Land acquisition is being taken up in phases.
The Metro extension is expected to significantly improve connectivity between the Old City and newer parts of Hyderabad, giving a boost to both commuting and commercial activity. The project cost is estimated at around Rs 2,000 crore, which includes road widening and shifting of utilities. The alignment will pass through Darulshifa, Purani Haveli, Etebar Chowk, Alijakotla, Mir Momin Daira, Haribowli, Shalibanda, Shamsheergunj, Alibad and end at Falaknuma.
