Metro Rail Expansion Plan Faces Pushback Over Religious Concerns in Hyderabad
The authorities in Hyderabad have accelerated land acquisition for the long-delayed 5.5 km Metro Rail extension from MGBS (Mahatma Gandhi Bus Station) to Falaknuma. However, the project has sparked protests, with affected residents urging the government to reconsider the alignment. The proposed route passes through busy streets and areas of historical and religious significance, raising concerns.
Many religious structures, some with significant historical value, are at risk of being partially or fully demolished for the project. In response, local groups have started organizing to challenge the plan. They have warned of legal action if the government proceeds without consulting the stakeholders. Mir Altaf Ali Abidi, president of the newly formed Deccan Heritage & Religious Protection Society, stated, “Despite filing objection petitions and sending legal notices, no response has been received from the authorities. The government has ignored public opinion and failed to hold broader discussions on the issue. If our concerns are not addressed, we will escalate our efforts and pursue legal action.”
The Metro Rail Corridor II (Green Line) from JBS (Jubilee Bus Station) to Falaknuma has been delayed for years. The proposed extension will include four stations: Salarjung Museum, Charminar, Shalibanda, and Falaknuma. The alignment will pass through key areas such as Darulshifa, Puranihaveli, Etebarchowk, and Shalibanda before ending at Falaknuma. To accommodate the Metro line, approximately 1,100 properties will be affected, with road widening planned up to 100 feet in most areas and 120 feet near stations. The project is estimated to cost Rs 2,000 crore, including expenses for road widening and utility relocation.
Legal experts and community leaders have also raised objections. High Court advocate Mir Wajid Ali Kamil criticized the government for moving forward without sufficient public consultation. “There are alternative routes that are more feasible and less controversial. The current route risks significant harm, especially in areas like Darulshifa, where religious sentiments are deeply tied to the region,” he said.
In September, a local committee formally presented an alternative plan to the Special Deputy Collector for land acquisition. They proposed rerouting the Metro Rail to run along the Musi River bed, opposite the Salarjung Museum, and extending it through Bahadurpura before turning toward Falaknuma. The committee believes this route would be more acceptable and avoid unnecessary disruptions to sensitive areas.
The debate over the Metro Rail alignment highlights the need for greater transparency, public engagement, and sensitivity to cultural and religious concerns in urban development projects.
