The Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA) has increased the maximum speed limit on the Outer Ring Road (ORR) to 120 kilometers per hour. Currently, vehicles are allowed to travel at a speed of 100 kilometers per hour on the ORR. The decision to increase the speed limit was taken during a review meeting chaired by IT and Municipal Administration Minister, KT Rama Rao. The HMDA has issued official orders regarding this change. The ORR is a controlled-access freeway consisting of four lanes on each side. So far, the maximum speed limit on the first two lanes was 100 kilometers per hour.
On the other hand, the maximum speed limit on the remaining two lanes was 80 kilometers per hour. Now, the speed limit on the first two lanes has been increased from 100 to 120 kilometers per hour. Minister KT Rama Rao instructed the Municipal Administration and Urban Development Special Chief Secretary Arvind Kumar to ensure compliance with safety regulations in order to tackle any emergency situations that may arise on the ORR. In case of any emergencies on the ORR (from Kokapet to Ghatkesar and Tararamati Pet-Nanakramguda), commuters can dial 1066 or 105910 for assistance.
To address the challenges posed by the monsoon season, KT Rama Rao instructed officials to be prepared. He conducted a review meeting specifically focused on heavy rainfall, flooding, and measures to mitigate these risks. In this context, he was informed about the progress of the Strategic Nala Development Program (SNDP) initiated by the HMWS&SB (Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board). The HMWS&SB officials explained that significant progress has been made in the implementation of major works under this program and also highlighted the need for continuous monitoring and inspection of drainage systems in order to prevent waterlogging and other issues caused by heavy rainfall.
The Minister also ordered officials to conduct a comprehensive audit of the existing stormwater drain network and other related infrastructure in the city. He emphasized the importance of timely completion of the safety audits of all municipalities in the state, which have been underway for some time. The officials briefed the Minister on the progress made in conducting safety audits of municipalities across the state. The Minister also directed officials to take necessary actions such as desilting of drains and other preparedness measures in rural areas. He reiterated the importance of being proactive in addressing the challenges posed by the monsoon season and ensuring the safety and well-being of the citizens.
