Telangana High Court seeks Metro construction map near heritage sites
HYDERABAD: The Telangana High Court on Thursday directed the state government to submit a detailed map of Metro Rail construction near heritage structures in the Old City.
Court seeks map of Metro works near heritage sites
A division bench was hearing a public interest litigation filed by the Andhra Pradesh Federation of Workers (APFW), which alleged that the ongoing Metro construction was damaging several heritage buildings and that no permission had been obtained from the Archaeology Department.
The petitioner’s counsel argued that as per heritage protection norms, no construction activity can be undertaken near notified monuments without prior approval.
Government defends project as vital for Old City
Advocate General Imran Khan, appearing for the government, told the court that the Metro Rail project was essential for the development of the Old City. He said the second phase of the Metro, from MGBS to Chandrayangutta, was already under way and that the petition had been filed only to obstruct development.
Chief Justice questioned the AG on the design and construction plans for the second phase and sought complete details of the project, including the routes near historical monuments.
Next hearing on November 18
After hearing both sides, the court instructed the government to submit the Metro construction map and all relevant details by the next hearing, which it scheduled for November 18.
