Free MMTS rides likely from June

metro india news  I hyderabad

Hyderabad residents may soon get a major relief in public transport as the Telangana government is reportedly planning to introduce free travel in MMTS suburban train services from June 2. However, the proposal is still under discussion and awaits final approval from the Railway Board.According to initial reports, the state government is exploring a pilot project to allow free travel on MMTS trains for all commuters, including men and women, within Hyderabad and nearby suburban routes. The initiative is aimed at reducing traffic congestion, easing pollution levels, and encouraging people to shift towards public transport.

Officials indicate that Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has given preliminary approval to the proposal, but it has not yet received formal clearance. The plan will require consent from the Railway Board as MMTS operations fall under the jurisdiction of Indian Railways. A draft agreement between the Telangana government and South Central Railway is also expected to be prepared.

At present, Hyderabad operates around 80 to 88 MMTS services daily, carrying nearly 38,000 to 42,000 passengers. Before the pandemic, daily ridership was close to 1.2 lakh, but it has since declined due to reduced frequency and operational issues. Authorities believe that free travel could significantly boost passenger numbers again if implemented.

The state government is also considering improving last-mile connectivity by linking MMTS stations with RTC shuttle bus services. This is expected to make suburban rail travel more convenient for daily commuters. Officials have also suggested improvements in train frequency, timing, and station infrastructure to support the proposed system.

The government currently spends around Rs 10 crore annually on MMTS operations in terms of revenue support, which it is reportedly ready to bear if the scheme is approved. However, railway officials have clarified that service control, scheduling, and operations will remain under railway authorities.

The proposal is also being viewed as part of the state’s broader public transport push, especially after the introduction of free bus travel for women in RTC services. If approved, the MMTS free travel plan could become another major welfare initiative in Hyderabad’s urban transport system, though final confirmation is still awaited.