Hyderabad Metro is regarded as the fastest built metro with near-perfect maintenance that has earned wide public appreciation.
Constructed by L&T under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, many believe the project’s timely completion and high standards are thanks to the private builder, something unlikely if it had been solely government run.
As proof, people often cite Bengaluru Metro, still incomplete after nearly 15 years and lacking seamless connectivity.
Public response and patronage to Hyderabad Metro are impressive, with stations bustling during peak hours.
Yet, despite its success, reports suggest L&T is considering handing it over to the government due to financial strain and difficulty breaking even. This raises deeper concerns.
Read More: A Cost Failure Despite Public Patronage?
If such a populous city struggles to sustain a PPP metro, what would it mean for smaller cities like Vizag and Vijayawada? How companies can come forward if it's on PPP?
If they are government funded, won't such metros become financial burdens? Understanding where exactly revenues and costs are mismatched in L&T’s case is crucial. These are the questions many are now asking.
Hyderabad is an ever-developing and ever-expanding city and the metro rail system has further boosted its growth and connectivity.
Employees working in companies around Hitec City and Raidurg now live in areas like Uppal and Nagole, as the commute has become easier and housing more affordable, all thanks to the metro.
The project has significantly influenced real estate, rental values and overall urban growth.
Wherever a new metro station is planned, a real estate boom is almost certain in that locality.
Even L&T Metro in Hyderabad was allotted space for metro malls as part of its commercial model. But questions are now emerging are these becoming a burden to maintain?
What exactly is the underlying issue? A deeper discussion and public awareness on this matter could serve as an eye opener for the rest of the nation.
