Hyderabad Metro Rail in India: a new record for public–private partnerships

Completed in 2020, the US$3.3 billion Hyderabad Metro Rail project in India set a new record public–private partnership delivery. The 67 km railway has three lines, 57 stations and two depots. Factors ensuring success included stakeholder consultation, ability to access funds, competitive and transparent procurement, a strong delivery consortium and appropriate risk allocation. Modular standardised stations and structures saved time and money, reduced design and quality control efforts and cut maintenance. The use of balanced cantilever construction and the spine and wing method also drastically reduced station footprints. The project has won multiple national and international awards.