HYDERABAD: In keeping with the rising patronisation, which has reached a phenomenal five lakh commuters every day in its seven years since inception, Hyderabad metro rail (HMRL) has decided to work on the plea of the passengers to add at least six-coach Metro Rail trains and operate them during the rush hours.
Hyderabad Metro Rail authorities on Wednesday told Deccan Chronicle that they are set to order for 10 new three-coach trains. That will be a substantial addition to its existing strength of 57 trains that collectively account for 171 coaches. This will be particularly beneficial during the peak hours.
Presently, metro trains make 1100 trips each day. During peak hours the frequency is two and half minutes, while it is five minutes during non-peak hours.
K.V.B. Reddy, MD and CEO of L&TMRHL, said, “We are ordering ten new trains of three coaches. It normally takes around 18 months for delivery of the orders.”
N.V.S. Reddy, MD of HMRL, said, “We are hoping for a change in the mindset of passengers. It is often noted that many commuters occupy the space near the doors. Though there is sufficient pace in the middle of the coach, no one wants to go there.”
He added, “This is the only metro in the world that uses its trains 100 per cent. Incidentally, there is heavy rush on only one side during peak hours. For instance in the mornings there is heavy rush from Nagole to Raidurg but it is less crowded on the return journey. That makes it difficult and needs to be addressed.”
