Hyderabad Metro Rail…..What is in for me?

Metro, this is the buzzword occupying headlines for last few years making the common man of Hyderabad curious as to what is in store for them. L&T Hyderabad Metro Rail is all set to change the way public transport system is defined in India and particularly in Hyderabad where the project is moving ahead at an impressive pace.

Connecting three important corridors of the city, the project heralds many benefits that is expected to unfold in the years to come. While some feel that hassle-free travel through a Mass Rapid Transport system can save time, there are others who express confidence that it also saves a lot of money for commuters. According to some denizens, it saves both time and money. Well here is an interesting contest where you can participate and share your view regarding how you think the Metro project can benefit you.

Does it save time or money or both? Join the exciting contest and win prizes.

Features of the L&T Hyderabad Metro Rail Project

World-class infrastructure for a Global City. This sums up the contribution of L&T Hyderabad Metro Rail Project to the city of Pearls & Nawabs. Considered to be the world's Largest Public-Private Partnership Project (PPP) in the Metro Sector, it is a Mass Rapid Transport System and once completed the project is expected to add a fresh impetus to Hyderabad’s growth story as the preferred city in India.

The project features integrated urban transport planning and incorporates inter modal connectivity accompanied with convenient sky-walks, that ushers a new phase of seamless commuting in India. L & T Hyderabad Metro Rail Network’s first phase covers a total distance of around 72 Km for three corridors namely Miyapur-LB Nagar, JBS- Falaknuma and Nagole -Shilparamam. The project boasts of many features:

·         Links major offices, retail and residential regions of Hyderabad with two tracks ensuring passage of trains in onward and return direction.

·         Passes through major public transport (bus) hubs such as MGBS, Koti, Dilsukhnagar, Miyapur, Charminar and Jubilee Bus Station where

·         Connects Secunderabad, Begumpet and Nampally rail terminals.

·         Connects with MMTS services at Bharatnagar, Begumpet, Khairatabad, Malakpet & Falaknuma

·         Provision for feeder bus stations.

·         World-class elevated stations for every one kilometer.

·         Least carbon foot print and a green mode of transport that reduces pollution

·         Reliable and fully air-conditioned travel in less time.

·         World-class and ultra-modern coaches.

·         Less wait time with high frequency schedules.

·         Separate staircases for elderly & disable

·         User friendly metro stations with modern elevators

·         Parking facility at important hubs/locations.

·         Hassle free entry by means of Automatic fare collection system

·         Reduced wait time at counters through Automatic ticket vending machines

·         Public amenities at stations such as public address and information system, toilets, telephones & ATM’s.

In addition to these features, L & T Hyderabad Metro is all set to implement transit-oriented development model that involves planned development of areas along the metro corridor with pedestrian friendly initiatives, high-density and quality development spanning outwards from a radius of 1-1.5 kilometers from the metro stations.

Transit-Oriented Development ….A Giant leap for Hyderabad

Modern Infrastructure is making new strides and with growing population densities, urban traffic management has become a nightmare.  In a densely populated nation like ours, especially in our cities, demolishing buildings and axing trees to widen arterial roads were conceived to be an ideal solution for accommodating the growing traffic volume, but there is also a growing realization that this is not the right solution because within no time these wide roads get clogged. Hence the need for a smart and futuristic solution in the form of a Metro has been mooted. Also an integrated development plan along the length and breadth of the L& T Metro corridor in Hyderabad is planned for a holistic development of the communities and neighborhoods involving a concept called Transit-Oriented Development (TOD).

This represents a mixed-use of the nearby residential and commercial areas closer to the metro rail route to enable maximize access to public transport but also to encourage transit ridership. A transit-oriented development model features a transit metro station and the nearby bus stop or rail road surrounded by areas of relatively high development spreading outward from the center progressively towards areas of lower-density development. These are usually located within a radius of one-quarter to one-half kilometer from a transit stop, which is also a boon for pedestrians. This trend has gained credence due to growing tariff congestion, a desire to stay in urban areas and experience quality urban lifestyle and creation of smart growth opportunities for individuals and businesses living close to the metro corridor.

The concept entails highest priority to pedestrian walkways, often neglected in our urban planning. Metro station emerging as the prime focus of an area it offers proximity to office, retail and residential spaces followed by quality growth and development within 5-10 minutes of walkable distance from the metro corridor. An integrated transport network with access to other modes of public transport and mini buses results in a win-win situation.

Transit Oriented Development has become a huge success in Delhi where Metro has transformed the manner of living and quality of life in the areas abutting the metro corridor.  It enables better quality of life, better place to live, play and work, reduced traffic congestion, higher and stable property values, more foot traffic and less scope for accidents. This model enhances the overall economic efficiency of a city along the metro corridors and ushers economic competiveness. This model of development witnessed good growth and patronage in big and medium cities of North America and Europe and with L & T Hyderabad Metro picking pace, the time has come for Hyderabad to take a giant leap in terms of infrastructure.