Hyderabad, Jan 6 (UNI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated the state-of-the-art Cherlapally Railway Terminal on Monday. Constructed at a cost of Rs 413 crore, the terminal is designed to rival airports in terms of amenities and efficiency, marking a significant milestone in Telangana’s railway infrastructure development.
The new terminal boasts modern facilities, including six escalators, seven lifts, separate waiting halls for men and women, a high-class waiting area, and an executive lounge. The first floor features a cafeteria, restaurant, and restrooms. Currently, 13 pairs of trains operate from the terminal, with an additional 12 trains planned.
Speaking at a programme held at Cherlapalli Railway Terminal, Telangana Governor Jishnu Dev Varma praised the transformative impact of initiatives like "Make in India" and the introduction of Vande Bharat trains.
He highlighted the remarkable growth of the South Central Railway, with the state’s railway budget allocation increasing from Rs 58 crore in 2014-15 to Rs 5,300 crore in 2024-25. The Cherlapalli Terminal is expected to ease pressure on Secunderabad, Hyderabad, and Kacheguda railway stations while boosting passenger and freight transport.
Union Coal and Mines Minister G Kishan Reddy expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, and Minister of State for Railways Somanna for their pivotal contributions to the Rs 413-crore Cherlapally Railway Terminal.
Reddy emphasised the transformative advancements in Indian Railways, including new railway lines, station modernisation, and electrification, which have significantly enhanced connectivity. The Cherlapally Terminal is expected to improve passenger transit in Hyderabad's outskirts and play a vital role in freight transport. Additionally, MMTS services from Cherlapally to Ghatkesar will further boost local transit options.
Under the "Amrit Bharat Station Scheme," 40 railway stations in Telangana are being upgraded, alongside the modernisation of 1,350 stations nationwide. Telangana has also achieved significant milestones in railway development, including 346 km of new lines, 100 percent electrification, and the introduction of five Vande Bharat trains to enhance regional connectivity.
Key projects include the Kazipet Railway Manufacturing Unit, expected to generate thousands of jobs, and the extension of MMTS services to Yadadri. Efforts like the redevelopment of Secunderabad Railway Station aim to rival international standards, though state cooperation in land acquisition remains crucial for further progress.
The Modi government has prioritised infrastructure growth, with investments of Rs 1.2 lakh crore for national highways and Rs 26,000 crore for the Triple R Road project, reaffirming its commitment to Telangana's development.
Union Minister of State for Railways Sommanna emphasised the government’s commitment to modernising Indian Railways through significant investments in electrification, safety systems, and new infrastructure.
Telangana has witnessed the construction of 346 km of new railway lines, 370 km of double tracks, and the electrification of 1,088 km of railway lines.
Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay Kumar lauded Union Minister Kishan Reddy’s role in the terminal’s construction and reiterated the government’s focus on improving connectivity through railways, aviation, and roads.
He also highlighted key projects like the modernisation of Secunderabad and Nampally railway stations and the Kazipet Railway Manufacturing Unit.
Eatala Rajender, MP, SCR officials, and others participated in the programme.
UNI VV ARN