Metro Silence Fuels Concern Over Darulshifa Sacred Structures

Protecting Hyderabad’s Heritage: Clarification Sought from HMRL Over Concerns of Metro Work Near Religious and Heritage Sites

Hyderabad: Prominent journalists and community representatives Dr. Zeeshan Abbas Razvi and Najaf Ali Shoukath, Senior Journalist, today visited the office of Hyderabad Metro Rail Limited (HMRL) seeking official clarification over public concerns related to Metro development activities in Hyderabad’s Old City.

The concerns relate specifically to potential disturbances near Alawa Sartouq Mubarak (Bargah Imam Zainul Abideen a.s.), the historic Dar-ul-Shifa Hospital, and surrounding commercial establishments — sites of high religious, cultural, and historical significance.

The delegation met with the General Manager at HMRL, who assured them that the Metro project is not disturbing the mentioned properties and that a written confirmation would be issued once Managing Director Mr. N.V.S. Reddy returns from his official tour to Japan with the Hon’ble Chief Minister.

Speaking to the media, Dr. Zeeshan Abbas Razvi stated:

“The community is not against development. But our cultural and religious heritage must not be compromised. We’ve been assured that no such harm will be caused, and we now await formal confirmation in writing.”

Najaf Ali Shoukath added:

“Alawa Sartouq Mubarak is sacred to the Shia community, and Dar-ul-Shifa is part of Hyderabad’s historic fabric. Their protection is non-negotiable.”

A representation submitted earlier on 24th March 2025 was re-acknowledged during the meeting. The delegation urged for:

• Prompt written assurance from HMRL
• Commitment that no heritage or religious structure will be altered or encroached upon
• Inclusive planning in sensitive zones with input from local communities

Copies of the letter have been forwarded to:

• Hon’ble Chief Minister of Telangana
• Director, Heritage Department
• Principal Secretary, Municipal Administration & Urban Development

The delegation reaffirmed that any action compromising these structures will meet with public resistance and must be avoided at all costs.