HMR bullied by traders?

Metro Rail corridor-II works only after completion of line I and III

Hyderabad Metro Rail Project is the largest PPP project in the world. One potent feature of the project is that it is insulated against any political influence. Even a change in the government cannot manipulate the metro design or route. Despite being emboldened by such characteristics, looks like the HMR has succumbed to pressure from traders. In fact, they are now awaiting the approval of traders at Sultan Bazaar, to go ahead with construction of Metro Rail Corridor-II

Of the three corridors where Hyderabad Metro Rail works are to be taken up, corridor-II, the metro line between Jubilee Bus Stand and Falaknuma continues to be mired in controversy. Even soil testing works have not yet begun on this corridor, even two years after the government had issued the order.

However, the works on the other two metro lines- corridor-I (Miyapur to LB Nagar) and corridor–III (Nagole-Shilparamam, Raidurg), is progressing at a brisk pace.

Right from the beginning of the project, HMR has been facing stiff opposition from over 500 traders of Sultan Bazaar and hawkers who fear loss of their livelihood if the project was implemented. Even heritage lovers campaigned against this Metro line which would pass along side monuments and places of heritage including Charminar.

The Metro authorities have also decided not to push forward with the proposal, as they feel that once the work in corridor I and III would be completed and the public start benefitting from the Metro Rail service, those who have been opposing corridor II, would voluntarily come forward and would cooperate in the works.

To deal with the situation, besides paying premium amount to those who would be displaced, HMR also came up with the rehabilitation proposal for traders, by setting up a commercial complex at Putlibowli at an estimated cost of Rs seven crore. But, till date the project remains on paper.

Sultan Bazaar traders, who have been fighting tooth and nail, even roped in the support of political parties like MIM and TRS to voice their concern. The traders are of the view that more the project gets delayed, the more benefitted they are. Presently, with regard to this controversial metro line, HMR authorities seem to have put the ball in the court of Sultan Bazaar traders and are focusing on completion of other two corridors.

The authorities have also decided to launch the Metro Rail operation in the corridors I and III, at various stages coinciding with festivals and other occasions.