MMTS Stations losing commuters’ confidence

Metro India News | Hyderabad 

Once seen as Hyderabad’s affordable suburban rail lifeline, the MMTS network is increasingly facing criticism over safety concerns, weak surveillance and unrestricted access at several stations. While efforts are underway to improve services and attract more passengers, many commuters believe that security issues at stations remain one of the biggest challenges confronting the system.

A growing concern among railway authorities is the presence of unauthorized persons inside station premises. Officials have observed that several MMTS stations are regularly being used by non-passengers for walking and recreational purposes. The resulting crowding on platforms often affects genuine passengers, particularly during peak hours, when commuters struggle to move freely, find seating or board trains comfortably.

The issue has now become a matter of security as well. Railway authorities have pointed to incidents linked to unrestricted access inside station premises, including an attempted chain-snatching involving a woman passenger. To curb unauthorized entry and platform misuse, warning boards are being installed at key MMTS stations, cautioning that trespassing and unauthorized use of platforms can attract legal action under the Railways Act.

An SCR employee from Malkajgiri said the problem extends beyond walkers using station premises. “There are complaints about people roaming around MMTS stations and engaging in illegal activities. Miscreants are often seen inside station areas and, in the absence of security personnel, there is a possibility of crimes taking place. There is no proper monitoring of who is entering the station, and many people simply walk in and occupy benches and seating meant for passengers,” the employee said.

Several commuters share similar concerns. One netizen who frequently travelled on the Lingampally route said the absence of visible security staff at certain stations often creates a sense of unease. “Unlike Metro stations, some MMTS stations do not appear to have any visible security personnel. This can feel unsafe, especially for solo passengers or people travelling late at night,” the commuter noted.

Passengers have also complained about poor maintenance and nuisance activities inside stations. Another netizen pointed out that people often spit gutka, dirty station premises and create unhygienic conditions. The commuter also highlighted the frequent presence of groups seeking money from passengers, which many travelers describe as a recurring nuisance during their journeys.

Trespassing remains another major issue. At locations such as Moula Ali, Secunderabad, Begumpet, Nampally and Lingampally, people continue to use railway tracks as shortcuts despite repeated warnings. Even within stations, passengers are often seen crossing tracks instead of using foot overbridges, putting their lives at risk. Under Section 147 of the Railways Act, trespassing can attract a fine of up to Rs 1,000 and imprisonment for up to six months.

The concerns come at a time when the government is attempting to revive MMTS ridership. During a review meeting earlier this year, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy stressed the need to improve passenger amenities and make MMTS services more commuter-friendly. However, commuters argue that better facilities alone will not be enough. For many, restoring confidence in MMTS will depend on stronger security, effective surveillance and stricter control over unauthorized access at stations.