Shamshergunj, Jangamet stations dropped from Old City Metro plan

HYDERABAD: The Old City Metro line from MGBS to Falaknuma will have two stations less than the original plan.
As per latest information from Hyderabad Metro Rail Limited, only four new stations — Salarjung, Charminar, Shah Ali Banda and Falaknuma — would be constructed. Consequently, two stations, Shamshergunj and Jangamet, have been dropped from the plan.
It is learnt that Shamshergunj station was removed from the latest plan as, according to the original layout, it was falling in a road curvature point, which would have added to the complexity in construction and reduce speed of the service. The new plan, to compensate for the loss of a station, would push Shah Ali Banda slightly closer to Shamshergunj to cater to both locations.
As for Jangamet station, it has been ruled out owing to its close proximity to Falaknuma station. “From our past experience, we have realised that having many stations in close proximity doesn’t always work as it leads to slowing down of the system as speed can’t be maintained,” Hyderabad Metro Rail Limited managing director NVS Reddy said. There were also concerns over the footfall.
“On the 5.5-km stretch, there will be five stations, including MGBS, which is an adequate number,” NVS Reddy added.
Meanwhile, it remains unclear as to whether L&T would be constructing the Old City Metro stretch. The foundation for the work would be laid on March 8.