Metro staff fear uncertainty as Telangana prepares takeover
HYDERABAD: Employees working under Hyderabad Metro Rail have expressed deep concern about their future as the state government prepares to take over metro operations from Larsen & Toubro. Workers said they have been under pressure for several days, unsure whether they will be retained or removed once the transition begins.
Metro staff have been approaching senior officials to understand the situation. Although L&T built the metro network and oversees the project, train operations are currently handled by Keolis, a France-based operator. Around 3,000 employees and outsourced staff are working under L&T and Keolis.
Government audit underway ahead of transfer from L&T
The government is preparing to take full control of Hyderabad Metro Rail in the next two to three months. As part of the process, a special auditor is reviewing all L&T-related assets, revenues and losses, including malls attached to metro stations.
Officials have been considering adding new trains and additional coaches due to rising passenger numbers. If the fleet expands, the government is likely to retain the current workforce and hire more staff.
However, employees recalled that the government earlier removed officials and staff who continued working in the metro system beyond retirement age to reduce operational costs. This has added to uncertainty about what changes may follow the takeover.
Keolis contract likely to continue for six months
The L&T–Keolis operations contract runs until April next year. Metro officials indicated that even after the takeover, the government may continue to run services through Keolis for at least the first six months to avoid disruption.
Sources said employees may not face immediate problems during this period, but decisions after the six-month window remain unclear. Staff with operational experience may be retained, while changes are likely among outsourced workers.
With major steps pending, employees are closely watching whether the government signs an extension with Keolis during the transition phase.
