Metro Ridership Up, RTC Commuters Struggle
While commuters gradually adapted to the diversions, bus passengers continued to face delays, prompting many to shift to Metro services for faster travel.
Hyderabad: Day two of the one‑way traffic restrictions around KBR Park was smoother than the first, but TGSRTC bus commuters continued to face difficulties as travel times increased and bus stops differed on onward and return journeys. The diversions, part of ongoing H‑City development works, have also boosted Hyderabad Metro Rail ridership, which officials said touched 4.75 to 4.85 lakh across the three corridors in the past two days, especially between Ameerpet and Raidurg stations.
Sandeep Kumar, an IT employee, said, “I used to commute in my own vehicle from Padmaraonagar. After this one‑way traffic, to avoid congestion, myself and several others opted for the Metro Rail.”
TGSRTC adjusted its routes around KBR Park, but passengers reported inconvenience. Ramana Murthy, a video editor working near Film Nagar, said, “I live in Sai Nagar, Hayatnagar, and travel by bus towards Kondapur 127 S/K. While going, it is the same route, but while returning home, the bus stop is farther. The roundabout takes 20 to 30 minutes extra. I have now decided to take the Metro Rail while returning.”
Similarly, Ibrahim Babumiah Shek, a resident of Lal Darwaza working in a Kondapur showroom, said, “From my home I take the 8A bus till Nampally, then No. 127 or 222 till Kondapur. Because of traffic congestion, we are spending several hours travelling. We also need the RTC to increase the fleet size.”
While commuters gradually adapted to the diversions, bus passengers continued to face delays, prompting many to shift to Metro services for faster travel.