L&T ends survey on Hyderabad Metro Rail

Hyderabad: After receiving numerous complaints of stolen and lost smart cards, L&T, the executing agency of Hyderabad Metro Rail, began a survey of its users at all locations. It was being conducted at Metro stations and even on the train, though the one on the trains was stopped after people raised concerns.

Details like name, phone number, smart card number and to-from destinations were being collected from card holders. 

Commuters were given a form and asked to fill details. This was seen as compromising the security of travellers, especially women, as co-passengers could see the details while forms were being filled. 

After notifying L&T officials of the loophole on Saturday, they immediately ordered the station assistants to stop collecting details on the train. “This survey is being conducted only to check the identity of smart card customers as a lot of people are losing money as much as Rs 2,000 when they lose their smart card. 

“Security of passengers is the topmost priority for us. We will stop taking details from the commuters on train. We will take it only at Metro stations,” said an L&T official. 

When a person lost his or her smart card and details were provided, L&T officials would transfer the balance amount and issue a new  card if the person’s credibility was validated. 

Meanwhile, after users filled the form, L&T officials would ring them up to take feedback about the services. 

These calls would be from the call centre number 040 23332555. Officials noted that the survey was optional and all details provided by the customer were highly confidential.