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Union Coal Minister G. Kishan Reddy has asked the Telangana government to complete the takeover of Phase I of the Hyderabad Metro Rail from L&T before moving further with Phase II. He made it clear that progress on the metro's second phase will depend on the successful completion of the takeover process.
Takeover of Phase I & Phase II Expansion
In a letter to Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy and Kishan Reddy stated that he met Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on January 14 to discuss both the takeover of Phase I and the proposed Phase II expansion. Earlier, the Telangana government had announced its plan to take control of metro operations from L&T and begin work on Phase II.
According to Kishan Reddy, Manohar Lal Khattar stressed that the state must finish the takeover of Phase I first. This includes finalising all related agreements, decisions, and financial transactions. He also noted that the Centre has already given in-principle approval for the construction of Phase II of the Hyderabad Metro.
The Union Minister explained that it was earlier decided to form a joint committee to manage the Phase I takeover and prepare for Phase II. This committee was to include two officials from the Central government and two from the Telangana government, ensuring smooth coordination between both sides.
Urge to Speed Up the Work
However, Kishan Reddy stated that the committee has not been formed yet because the Telangana government has not shared the names of its two officials, even after being asked by the ministry. Due to this delay, the committee has not started its work. He urged the Telangana government to speed up the process by completing the takeover of Phase I and nominating officials for the joint committee. He added that only after these steps are completed can detailed proposals for Phase II be properly reviewed and taken forward.
