In a significant change, construction giant L&T has finally bowed down to pressure of Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao. L&T has agreed to the changes in the routes of the Hyderabad Metro Rail along the three stretches as proposed by KCR. However, KCR has come forward to bear the additional financial burden for the realignment which is estimated around Rs 300 to 400 Crore.

KCR, who met L&T chief A. Naik at the Secretariat on Saturday, had told him that Telangana has historical and cultural significance and people have emotional bonding with historical monuments, structures and said that the development should not affect the heritage of city. He has sought to do realignment at Legislative Assembly, Sultan Bazaar and in Old city to guard religious places. KCR told Naik upfront that he would not allow any remodelling or damage to historical structures like T-martyrs memorial, Assembly. He instead asked him to shift the route from rear of the Assembly rather than in front of the Assembly. At the same time, he also sought to change the route at Koti Womens’ college in order to save Sultan Bazaar and suggested to take the route from the rear of Koti Womens’ college.

Meanwhile, for the change of routes in Old City KCR reportedly told Naik that a separate meeting would be arranged which will also joined by MIM, who hold a sway in the area to resolve the contentious issues with regard the project. KCR told Naik that there are around 40 religious places that would be affected with the present alignment of Metro Rail project in Old City and wanted to adopt changes in the route considering MIM’s objections. The new routes will said to be finalized at a meeting to be held on Nov 20.