No stay on Old City metro rail: Hyderabad Metro chief NVS Reddy refutes reports on HC order

Hyderabad: Hyderabad Airport Metro Limited (HAML) managing director NVS Reddy has dismissed reports in vernacular media suggesting that the Telangana High Court has issued stay orders on the Old City Metro Rail works.

Calling such claims factually incorrect and misleading, CM Revanth Reddy clarified that no such stay has been issued by the Telangana High Court.

“The High Court has not issued any stay order either yesterday or in the past on metro rail works in the old city. On behalf of HAML, the Addl AG gave an assurance to the High Court earlier that no heritage structure would be touched or demolished.

“The contents being circulated in/selective leakages of the filed affidavits/counter affidavits to social media groups appear to be a part of a misinformation campaign, which is unfortunate. The matter is sub judice, and this needs to be kept in mind,” NVS Reddy said.

Clarification on court proceedings

Responding to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by the Act Public Welfare Foundation (APWF), HAML had earlier submitted to the High Court that the proposed Metro alignment does not endanger or require demolition of any heritage structures. “The alignment is significantly away from Charminar and Falaknuma,” Reddy pointed out.

The Additional Advocate General (AAG), Imran Khan, had assured the court on behalf of HAML that no heritage buildings would be touched. Following multiple rounds of affidavits and counter-affidavits between the petitioner and HAML, the court recently granted three weeks’ time for filing a consolidated counter.

“In its latest order, the High Court merely stated that any existing interim relief, if applicable, will remain in effect until the next hearing. This should not be construed as a stay on the project,” Reddy clarified.

Demolition and compensation are progressing smoothly

Reddy further informed that demolitions of non-heritage structures are progressing at a steady pace, with owners accepting attractive compensation packages primarily through consent awards.

He highlighted the unique challenges in Old City due to dense construction and a web of utility cables, which necessitate careful, often night-time demolitions to avoid traffic disruptions.

He praised the dedication of HAML officials, particularly women officers who are playing a crucial role in engaging with property owners and overseeing night operations.

Heritage protection assured

Reiterating HAML’s commitment, Reddy assured that no heritage structure will be affected and appropriate engineering solutions are being implemented to preserve the city’s historical identity.

Public support and project progress

Acknowledging the growing support from local residents, Reddy noted that the people of the Old City are encouraged by the progress of demolitions and debris clearance.

“So far, around 311 properties have been acquired and Rs 283 crore has been disbursed as compensation,” he added, expressing hope for the early commencement of the long-delayed Metro works in the Old City.