Hyderabad Metro Phase-2: Telangana govt withdrew its earlier proposal, says RTI reply
The Ministry informed that a fresh Phase-2A proposal was submitted on November 4, 2024, and is currently under appraisal
By - Sistla Dakshina Murthy
Hyderabad: The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) has confirmed that the Telangana government withdrew its earlier Hyderabad Metro Phase-2 proposal.
As per the update, a fresh proposal has been submitted in 2024 by the new State government.
The clarification came in response to an RTI query filed by city-based applicant Kareem Ansari, who sought details of correspondence, approvals and status updates related to the metro project.
Earlier proposal withdrawn
According to the RTI reply, the Government of Telangana submitted a proposal on October 27, 2022, covering 62 km at a projected cost of Rs 14,558 crore.
This included the previously planned Phase-2A and Phase-2B routes such as BHEL–Lakdikapul, Nagole–LB Nagar, and the Airport Express line. However, the proposal was later withdrawn by the new state government.
Current Phase-2A under appraisal
The Ministry informed that a fresh Phase-2A proposal was submitted on November 4, 2024, and is currently under appraisal. The proposal has not yet reached the Public Investment Board (PIB) or any other Central appraisal body.
Phase-2B: Airport extension on table
A new Phase-2B proposal, extending the metro line to Shamshabad Airport, was received by the Ministry on June 26. The project is estimated to cost Rs 19,579 crore and is under examination. So far, the Ministry has not sought clarifications or revisions from the Telangana government.
Correspondence withheld under RTI
While Ansari had requested copies of letters, emails, and file notes exchanged between the Centre and the State government, the Ministry refused disclosure. It cited Section 8(1)(i) of the RTI Act, stating that such correspondence forms part of Cabinet papers and can only be released once the Government of India approves the project.
No feasibility studies conducted
The RTI reply further revealed that no feasibility studies, internal assessments or expert committee recommendations have been carried out by MoHUA on the viability or priority of Hyderabad Metro Phase-2A or Phase-2B.
Right to appeal
The Ministry noted that if Kareem Ansari or any applicant is not satisfied with the reply, they may file a first appeal before the Appellate Authority, MoHUA, Sankalp Bhawan, New Delhi.
