Miyapur to house magnificent edifice

Hyderabad: The city is going to have a new iconic landmark at Miyapur. The plaza being developed here to mark the inauguration of the first phase of Metro Rail is set to emerge as the newest selfie point. It will be the latest retreat in Hyderabad, a place to unwind and relax.

An incredible 10 acres of quality public space is being created by the HMRL on both sides of Miyapur station with wide footpaths and pedestrian focussed amenities. This was possible after clearing the encroachments and creating hawkers’ zone, inaugural plaza, relaxation zone with food courts, rural sports zone etc.

According to Metro officials, rather than simply adding another mode of transport, HMRL has seized the opportunity to redesign, rejuvenate and transform the City of Nawabs into a people friendly green city.

What was earlier merely a piece of encroached land is being revitalised and turned into a world class destination. In keeping with the trend world over, enough space is being provided for all segments of society. Children can play games, elders practice yoga and women can indulge in their pursuits, according to HMRL Managing Director, NVS Reddy, after yet another round of inspection of the site on Monday.

At any given time 1 lakh persons can easily congregate here. The art spot will be open for anybody to unplug his or her creativity. One can paint, draw, leave social messages or simply take to graffiti. Erase the art work and the space on the round or triangular structure at the art spot is again available for artists to showcase their creativity. This apart, there are designated sheltered spaces for informal and spontaneous markets. One can hold art camps or stage a street drama here.

“The emphasis is on throwing open the place for everyone to enjoy in public since the city belongs to all,” said NVS Reddy. HMRL has taken measures to eliminate pedestrian-vehicular conflict through protective railings along the highway, planter bollards and pedestrian crossings. The steel railing prevents people from coming on to the main road. A permanent rahgiri site is created in 1.5 km of area on both sides of the station and it is being developed with greenery and shaded footpaths for user comfort.

For passenger convenience, HMRL says, it will ensure seamless travel connectivity with integration of Metro Rail with RTC buses, autorickshaws and cabs. Enough parking space has been created to accommodate wheelers and two wheelers. All along the service roads, convenience parking is being provided for bikes and cars.

This apart, street parking bays are also being created on the highway for emergency personnel like the police and ambulance. With a view to encourage cycling, parking for bicycles is provided just below the Metro station.

There will be designated bus stops for corporates, schools, private buses and feeder services. Bi-directional service road will segregate the local traffic from fast moving traffic on the highway. For the first time, RTC bus bays will have solar photo voltaic panel shades at Miyapur.