Hyderabad: The officials of the Hyderabad Airport Metro Rail Ltd (HAML) have started exploring new routes based on a suggestion from Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy. The managing director of HAML, NVS Reddy, held a brainstorming session with engineering experts and senior officers to discuss modified proposals for Metro phase-II at Metro Rail Bhavan.
The main topic of discussion was whether the new plan should include a through line or a spur line. Two potential lines were discussed: Nagole-LB Nagar-Mailardevpalli-Shamshabad Airport and Nagole-LB Nagar-Mailardevpalli-new high court. Another issue was the extension of the MGBS-Falaknuma line to Chandrayangutta, but there are complications due to a flyover and narrow road. The possibility of using new signalling technologies and coaches was also considered.
The meeting also examined the advantages and disadvantages of using the same signalling and train control system and coaches from phase-I or adopting new technologies that are now available. They also discussed the need for flexibility and obtaining competitive rates by breaking the restrictive trade practices of existing technology and Metro coach suppliers. Additionally, they recognized the importance of providing seamless travel facilities for passengers transitioning from phase-I corridors to the new corridors.
The team is also addressing other issues such as the location of depots, operational control centers, and the feasibility of laying an ‘at-grade’ Metro on the Mailardevpalli-Airport road. Their goal is to find optimal solutions that can reduce costs. NVS Reddy emphasized the need for adequate parking facilities, last-mile connectivity, pedestrian facilities, and space for luggage in the airport-bound Metro trains. He stated that senior engineers and consultants will study the best practices of various Metros and learn from phase-I to improve passenger facilities.
The points discussed during the meeting were:
– Determining which parts would be through lines and spur lines
– Developing Chandrayangutta as an interchange station
– Considering the adoption of new signalling technologies and coaches
– Assessing the feasibility of an at-grade Metro on the Mailardevpalli-Airport road.
