Old City Metro Land Acquisition Nears Completion
Officials said out of 888 identified properties, disputes over 10 have reached the High Court, which has reserved judgment
HYDERABAD: With 90 per cent of land acquisition completed for the much‑anticipated 7.5 km Old City Hyderabad Metro Rail stretch, authorities are racing to finish the remaining by June‑end. The ₹2,886‑crore project faces hurdles over 10 to 15 properties, mostly within the first kilometre near Darulshifa, tied up in family disputes and multiple claimants.
Officials said out of 888 identified properties, disputes over 10 have reached the High Court, which has reserved judgment. “We are handling about 20 to 30 properties, a dozen of which involve internal family issues. In some cases, minors are heirs, so we are facilitating bank accounts before passing awards. Without resolving these matters, compensation cannot be issued,” an official explained.
The official added that many properties, some nearly a century old, carry deep emotional value. Families have sought delays for personal reasons, including marriages. “We are not forcing people, but convincing them patiently,” he said, stressing the difficulties in this flagship initiative under the Congress government.
Meanwhile, Hyderabad Metro Rail Ltd (HMRL) has floated a global Request for Proposal (RfP) to appoint a General Consultant for Phase‑II corridor VI from MGBS to Chandrayangutta. The consultant will oversee construction, testing, and commissioning, ensuring compliance with standards. Technical, financial, and contract powers will rest with Hyderabad Airport Metro Ltd (HAML).
Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy recently directed officials to expedite acquisition and complete Metro works up to Chandrayangutta within the stipulated time. At an April review meeting, he emphasised timely execution of development projects, with the Old City Metro a priority.
