Hyderabad Metro Expansion Gets Push As SBICAPS Named Consultant For Phase I, II

The Telangana government and the Centre have reached a consensus on the next steps for Hyderabad Metro Rail, paving the way for the valuation of Phase I and detailed planning for Phase II expansion. The decision was taken after Chief Minister Revanth Reddy held discussions with Union Minister for Urban Affairs Manoharlal Khattar and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw in New Delhi.

SBICAPS Appointed To Conduct Metro Study

The state government and the Centre have agreed to appoint SBICAPS as the consultant for evaluating Hyderabad Metro Rail Phase I and preparing a roadmap for Phase II. The move comes amid ongoing discussions regarding the takeover of Metro Rail Phase I and the future expansion of the network.

"During the meeting, the Chief Minister and Union ministers arrived at a consensus and decided to appoint a consultant. The consultant will study the valuation of Hyderabad Metro Phase-I, raise the loans required for the takeover, and select a list of lending agencies. Further, a study will be taken on Metro Rail expansion, construction cost, and financing for Metro Phase-II," an official release from the CMO said on Tuesday, June 23.

Focus On Valuation, Financing And Expansion

According to the Chief Minister's Office, SBICAPS will undertake a comprehensive assessment covering the valuation of the existing Metro Phase I network, expansion plans under Phase II, and related financial aspects.

The consultant will also examine the funding requirements for the proposed takeover and identify suitable lending institutions. In addition, the study will evaluate construction costs and financing models required for the next phase of Hyderabad Metro's growth.

Joint Coordination Mechanism Finalised

To ensure smooth coordination between the Centre and the state government, both sides have agreed to nominate senior officials to oversee the study process.

The Chief Minister and Union ministers decided that a senior Central government official and the Special Chief Secretary of Telangana's Municipal Administration and Urban Development (MA&UD) Department will act as nodal representatives during the consultant's assessment.

These officials will work together to facilitate the study and help expedite the necessary administrative procedures.

Report To Determine Future Course Of Action

The future of Hyderabad Metro Phase I takeover and the implementation strategy for Phase II will depend on the findings submitted by SBICAPS.

Once the consultant completes its assessment, the Telangana government and the Centre will jointly review the report and decide on the next course of action. The report is expected to provide clarity on valuation, financing options, expansion plans and the overall framework for advancing Hyderabad Metro's development.