Hyderabad: In a significant move to enhance pedestrian safety and promote seamless connectivity, the Hyderabad Metro Rail Limited (HMRL) has announced plans to construct skywalks linking metro stations with commercial and residential complexes. Hyderabad Metro Rail Managing Director Mr. NVS Reddy made this announcement, emphasizing the role of skywalks in improving pedestrian mobility across the city.
State Government’s Vision: Tackling Traffic & Pollution
As part of its commitment to reducing traffic congestion and air pollution, the Telangana state government is strengthening public transport infrastructure to encourage people to rely more on mass transit systems instead of private vehicles.
At a recent Comprehensive Mobility Planning meeting held at HMDA Swarna Jayanti Bhavan, Mr. NVS Reddy, along with HMDA Metropolitan Commissioner Mr. Sarfaraz Ahmad, agreed in principle to accelerate the construction of skywalks connecting metro stations with nearby high-footfall destinations.
Existing and Upcoming Skywalks in Hyderabad
Several skywalks have already been completed, serving as safe pedestrian overpasses that enhance metro connectivity:
- L&T Metro Rail has built skywalks at Panjagutta, Hitec City, and Erramanzil Metro Stations, directly linking them to malls and commercial centers developed by the company.
- Skywalks at JBS and Parade Ground Metro Stations ensure safe passage for commuters without having to cross busy intersections.
- Raheja Mindspace Skywalk: A state-of-the-art skywalk connects Raidurg Metro Station to the Raheja Mindspace IT Complex, facilitating smooth access for thousands of employees working in its 11 office towers.
- Uppal Rotary Skywalk: Integrated with Uppal Metro Station, this skywalk, constructed by HMDA, enables pedestrians to safely navigate one of the city’s busiest junctions.
Expanding the Skywalk Network: Major Developments
Encouraged by the success of these projects, Metro MD Mr. NVS Reddy stated that real estate developers, commercial establishments, and residential complexes are showing keen interest in constructing skywalks connected to metro stations. Some of the major upcoming projects include:
- Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Balanagar Metro Station: A skywalk is being built by Phoenix/Landmark Mall developers to connect the station with their upcoming mall.
- L.B. Nagar Metro Station: Vasavi Group is constructing a skywalk to their Vasavi Anandanilayam residential complex, which spans 25 acres with 12 towers, each 33 stories high, ensuring easy metro access for thousands of residents.
- Future Skywalk Locations: Discussions are underway to construct skywalks at Nagole, Stadium, Durgam Cheruvu, and Kukatpally Metro Stations, according to L&T Metro MD Mr. KVB Reddy.
Private Sector Collaboration Encouraged
Metro authorities are encouraging private developers and business establishments to invest in skywalks for enhanced connectivity and footfall. Any private entity interested in constructing skywalks linked to metro stations can reach out to L&T Metro Rail’s retail officer, Mr. K.V. Nagendra Prasad, at 9900093820 for further details.
Metro Stations as Safe Pedestrian Crossings
Apart from skywalks, Hyderabad Metro Rail’s existing infrastructure provides safe pedestrian access at all 57 metro stations across the 69 km network. Dedicated pedestrian pathways on both sides of each station allow people to cross roads safely without needing a metro ticket, ensuring accessibility for all pedestrians.
Metro MD Mr. NVS Reddy has urged citizens to make use of these safe crossings instead of risking accidents by crossing busy roads directly.
Conclusion
With Hyderabad’s rapid urbanization, the expansion of skywalk networks will play a crucial role in improving pedestrian safety, reducing traffic congestion, and encouraging metro usage. The state government and Hyderabad Metro Rail’s proactive steps will undoubtedly make the city more pedestrian-friendly and transit-oriented.