Hyderabad Metro: Religious and Heritage Sites Face Challenges Amid Land Acquisitions

Telangana government has announced plans to raise Rs 600 crore by auctioning open plots in the Uppal Bhagayat Layout. The funds will support the land acquisition required for the 7.5-km Old City Metro corridor extension, connecting the Mahatma Gandhi Bus Station (MGBS) to Chandrayangutta. This crucial project, part of the Hyderabad Metro Rail Limited (HMRL) initiative, aims to enhance connectivity in Hyderabad’s Old City region.

Rs 1,000 Crore Estimated for Land Acquisition and Infrastructure

The total estimated cost for acquiring land and associated expenses stands at Rs 1,000 crore. Of this, Rs 525 crore will be spent on direct land acquisition, including Rs 150 crore earmarked for rehabilitation and resettlement of affected individuals, and Rs 325 crore allocated for structural compensation. An additional Rs 175 crore has been budgeted for demolition of structures (Rs 40 crore), utility shifting (Rs 60 crore), and road widening (Rs 75 crore).

The Telangana state budget has already allocated Rs 500 crore for the Old City Metro Rail project, and the remaining funds will be raised through the auction of Uppal Bhagayat plots, managed by the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA). Officials have indicated that the auction process will begin shortly.

Challenges in Land Acquisition and Compensation

The Old City Metro extension has faced significant delays since its initial proposal during the first phase of the Hyderabad Metro Rail project. Alignment disputes and challenges in acquiring properties slowed progress for years. However, recent developments, including road widening work in Moghalpura and Kotla Ali Jah, have kickstarted the long-awaited project.

The land compensation rate, initially set at Rs 60,000 per square yard, was increased to Rs 81,000 per square yard following a recommendation by Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi to ensure fair compensation for property owners.

Preserving Heritage and Sensitive Structures

One of the major hurdles in the Old City Metro project has been addressing concerns about the impact on over 100 religious, heritage, and sensitive structures along the proposed route. To mitigate potential disruptions, HMRL has incorporated innovative engineering solutions into its plans, ensuring the preservation of these structures while constructing the elevated metro corridor.

Connecting Key Old City Areas

The 7.5-km metro extension will connect major Old City locations, including Shalibanda, Falaknuma, and Chandrayangutta. Once completed, the corridor is expected to significantly improve public transport accessibility in the region, reducing travel time and easing congestion.

Conclusion

The government’s decision to auction prime land in Uppal Bhagayat is a significant step toward funding the long-delayed Old City Metro extension. With land acquisition and construction activities underway, the project is expected to boost infrastructure development in Hyderabad’s historic Old City while preserving its rich cultural heritage.