The Phase-II expansion of the Hyderabad Metro will add 76.4 kilometers across 54 stations at a cost of Rs 242.69 billion, according to NVS Reddy, Managing Director of HAML and HMR. Announced on Monday, this expansion responds to increasing demand for enhanced urban transit infrastructure. Part A of the project includes five new corridors: Shamshabad to RGIA Airport, Raidurg to Kokapet Neopolis, MGBS to Chandrayangutta (Old City), Miyapur to Patancheru, and LB Nagar. Part B involves extending the RGIA line to the proposed Fourth City (Skill University), creating a sixth corridor. “These corridors extend the current network, with additional work on either side and a dedicated Airport Metro corridor connecting all three existing lines,” Reddy explained. The project, a joint effort between the Union and Telangana governments, is funded through multiple channels. Telangana will contribute Rs 73.13 billion (30%), while the Union government will provide Rs 42.3 billion (18%). Multi-Development Bank loans, including those from JICA, ADB, and NDB, account for Rs 116.93 billion (48%), with the remaining Rs 10.33 billion (4%) funded through public-private partnerships. Notably, the MDB loans come with favourable terms, including an interest rate of approximately 2%, a moratorium of 5-10 years, and a 30-year repayment period. “This provides a repayment timeline of over 40 years, offering financial advantages compared to domestic lending rates of 9-10%,” Reddy highlighted. The project’s detailed report, comprehensive mobility plan, and alternatives analysis are currently under review by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs. (Indian Express)