Citizens Seek New MMTS Routes, More Halts

Hyderabad:The city's suburban railway stations, Safilguda, Ramakrishna Nagar and Neredmet were once considered the outskirts but now lie well within Hyderabad. The railways have upgraded these stations with modern infrastructure and electrical improvements.

However, residents remain concerned about the lack of proper MMTS services and the absence of stops for important trains at these stations. Travellers also demanded stoppage of key trains at the Malkajgiri railway station, developed under the Amrut Bharat scheme.

With the 76th Zonal Railway Users Consultative Committee (ZRUCC) meeting scheduled next month, several travellers’ associations and resident welfare organisations plan to raise these issues through their representatives and public officials. The meeting will be attended by key stakeholders, including MPs, MLAs, 25 committee members, the general manager, principal chief heads of departments, and others.

B.T. Srinivasan, secretary-general of the Confederation of Resident Welfare Associations, said, “These stations need proper approach roads as the population has increased tenfold. Main trains must stop here. Residents have to travel long distances to catch trains. The railways should identify these needs and implement the necessary changes.”

Noor Ahmed Ali, president of the Train Travellers Association and an attendee of the meeting, said he has submitted several agenda items. These include changing MMTS train timings to better suit office-goers and students. “There is an urgent need for a new MMTS train from Medchal to Kacheguda, arriving at 5.30 am to connect with the Vande Bharat and other trains starting from Kacheguda. Also, the Tungabhadra Express should start from Medchal,” he added.

The associations also highlighted the construction of a new railway line from Mantralayam to Kurnool, a project that has been pending for years. This line would greatly benefit farmers by facilitating the transport of agricultural products to other cities.