Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy dispelled speculations surrounding the cancellation of Hyderabad’s airport metro and Pharma City projects on Monday. He clarified that the Congress government is in the process of restructuring these projects to enhance cost-effectiveness, commuter convenience, and to optimize metro rail distances to the airport. Contrary to the initial plans proposed by the previous government, the Raidurg-Shamshabad Airport Metro line project may not be pursued.
Addressing the media at the secretariat, CM Revanth Reddy mentioned that despite L&T representatives advising against the commercial feasibility of the Raidurg-Shamshabad airport stretch, the previous government proceeded with the project to serve the real estate interests of its associates. Instead, the revamped plan involves extending the Metro rail from Mahatma Gandhi Bus Terminal at Gowliguda to Shamshabad airport via the Old City and Chandrayangutta.
Furthermore, the Chief Minister outlined additional extensions, including the Metro from Nagole to Chandrayangutta via LB Nagar and Owaisi Hospital, connecting it to the Metro from the Old City to the airport. The government is also open to extending the Metro rail from Mindspace junction to the Financial District and from Miyapur to Ramachandrapuram near Patancheru via BHEL if necessary.
CM Revanth Reddy emphasized the willingness of the central government to fund metro projects based on commuter feasibility. The proposed routes are expected to attract substantial patronage, unlike the previous government’s plan, which was deemed less practical.
Regarding the Pharma City project, the Chief Minister assured that it would not be abandoned. Instead, the government aims to establish 10 pharma clusters, each spanning 1,000-3,000 acres near highways within the Outer Ring Road and the Regional Ring Road. These clusters will feature residential colonies and necessary facilities to discourage daily commuting to the city, promoting a pollution-free environment.
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