Authorities are considering a counter-current BRT system to allow RTC buses to pass through IT corridor in Hyderabad faster

For commuters who spend long hours traversing Hyderabad’s IT corridor, the proposal under consideration could give public transport an unusual advantage over the traffic around it: RTC buses plying in a dedicated oncoming lane.

The Cyberabad Traffic Police is examining the feasibility of a counter-current Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system between JNTU Junction and Raidurgam Metro Station via HITEC City with the possibility of extending it towards Waverock and the Financial District. The goal of the proposal is to increase the capacity of public transport and reduce driving times without worsening traffic for other motorists.

The plan was discussed at a coordination meeting on Thursday (1 October) following a transport and BRT survey carried out by the Foundation for Resources and Innovations Policy (FRIP) in coordination with the Cyberabad Society Security Council.

A physical test with buses running on both sides of the road has also been ordered for Thursday evening to assess actual traffic movement, merging conditions and whether the anti-flow arrangement can work on the ground.

As per the proposal, RTC buses would be given a dedicated anti-flow lane along parts of the corridor, allowing them to bypass congestion while ensuring that general traffic movement is not disrupted. The authorities have also explored counterflow and kerb-side BRT options using traffic simulation.

But there’s a long list of issues that need to be fixed before commuters can expect buses to run past the familiar snarls. Inadequate bus bays, roadside parking, obstructions, poor lane discipline, pedestrians crossing the road, unauthorized stopping of vehicles, conflicts at intersections and insufficient pedestrian facilities were identified as recurring barriers.

The TGSRTC currently operates up to 15 buses per hour along the corridor and has indicated that more services could be introduced to increase public transport capacity and reduce reliance on private vehicles. Existing and additional buses could be incorporated into the proposed oncoming lane.

Officials also discussed suitable bus entry and exit points, bus stop locations, turning points, boarding arrangements and the need for suitable shelters and bays. Civic officials assured support for improving footpaths, bus bays and related infrastructure.

Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic), Sunpreet Singh, directed FRIP to re-evaluate the proposed lane from JNTU to Raidurgam Metro station and onwards towards Waverock and the financial district, particularly the point at Raidurgam where buses would have to revert to regular service.

Published – 01 Oct 2026 21:29 IST