Hyderabad’s Multi-Modal Transport System (MMTS) is struggling with punctuality and reliability issues, causing significant inconvenience for daily rail commuters. The primary reason for these challenges is the absence of dedicated railway tracks for MMTS services.
Unlike other major Metro cities such as Chennai, Mumbai, and Kolkata, where separate corridors exist for suburban train services, Hyderabad’s MMTS operates on the same tracks as other rail services, leading to scheduling conflicts and delays.
The suburban sections of the South Central Railway network, which include Hyderabad and Secunderabad divisions, are operating at capacity. Sources indicate that the network urgently requires expansion to accommodate the growing demand and improve service reliability. As a result of the congestion and lack of dedicated infrastructure, the MMTS has faced issues such as frequent cancellations, extended halts, and declining punctuality. This has led to a noticeable drop in passenger numbers.
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Before the pandemic, the MMTS recorded a daily ridership of over 1.6 lakh passengers. However, current figures show a sharp decline, with only 40,000 to 50,000 passengers using the service daily. The reduction in train services is evident, with the South Central Railway cutting down from 121 MMTS trains to 100.
Noor Ahmed, General Secretary of the Suburban Train & Bus Travellers Association and Member of the Zonal Railway Users Consultative Committee (ZRUCC), highlighted the urgent need for improvements. “The lack of punctuality is driving passengers away. It would be beneficial for the Railways and the Government of Telangana to conduct a survey and plan for expanding the rail network.
Additional lines should be laid in a phased manner from Secunderabad to Kacheguda, Lingampally, and Cavalry Barracks to alleviate congestion and improve service,” Ahmed suggested.
Passengers on routes such as Ghatkesar-Lingampally are also calling for additional trains during evening hours. The current two-track system, used by goods trains, superfast trains, and suburban MMTS services, often leads to delays when trains are held in loop lines to accommodate passing superfast trains. This frequent delay and cancellation of services have forced many passengers to seek alternative modes of transport.
Rajesh, a regular commuter, expressed frustration with the frequent cancellations, stating, “I am often forced to use other public transport due to the unreliability of MMTS services. Despite multiple complaints, the issues remain unresolved. Separate tracks for suburban trains would significantly improve the situation.”
The MMTS faces significant challenges as it continues to operate without dedicated tracks, underscoring the need for infrastructure improvements to meet the demands of Hyderabad’s growing commuter population.
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