The Telangana government and Hyderabad Metro Rail (HMR) are in the process of appointing a second consultant to assist with the takeover of Phase-I operations from L&T Metro Rail Hyderabad (L&TMRH).

The need for this new consultant arose after it was found that the agencies evaluating the financial and legal aspects lacked the expertise to assess the technical components of the metro system. The technical due diligence audit will cover critical areas like rolling stock, electric traction, signaling (CBTC), and operations control centers. Public sector firms such as Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) and NCRTC are expected to be considered, though overseas experts may also be included.

The Chief Secretary-led panel aims to complete the review within 100 days, in line with the Chief Minister’s deadline for the takeover by the start of the next financial year. However, officials believe the process may take four to five months due to complex contracts requiring detailed examination to avoid legal issues.