Hyderabad: Metro Rail’s much-hyped last mile connectivity remains a jinx
Hyderabad: A majority of metro rail commuters are a disappointed lot. They have been waiting in anticipation of the much-trumpeted last mile connectivity. Seven years on, it remains a pipedream for all commuters, especially the regular patrons.
A grand announcement was made by the authorities that the phase II expansion will ensure last mile connectivity as they were to partner with MMTS, TGSRTC, Swida and Rapido. However, precious little has been made on that front, much to the chagrin of the millions of commuters.
It must be recalled that in December 2021 when the metro rail footfall was around 2.4 lakh, HMRL tied-up with Rapido with both averring that they would ensure seamless last mile connectivity. The deal is in a limbo ever since as there has been no progress beyond the rhetoric.
From April 2022, electric autos were supposed to facilitate connectivity to those living within a five-km radius from the stations against a minimum charge of Rs 10. As a pilot project these rides were to operate from the parade ground and Raidurg stations.
However, even this seems jinxed.Presently across 57 stations, Hyderabad metro is patronised by around five lakh passengers. They are all hoping to get the last mile connectivity in coordination with RTC and be assured of shuttle services.