Inaugural plaza set to become selfie hot spot

Each arch is designed as a rail track which vanishes into infinity, signifying the future expansion of the Metro Rail. The arch form is taken to signify Hyderabad’s heritage like Charminar and other monuments.

The inaugural plaza for the Hyderabad Metro Rail that will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narender Modi on November 28 will have three arches, symbolising the three corridors, coming out of a water pond. Each arch is designed as a rail track which vanishes into infinity, signifying the future expansion of the Metro Rail.

Of varying heights — 14 ft, 18 ft and 22 ft respectively — the arches bear a dab of blue which is HMRL’s dominant colour and the stainless steel panels are the same as of the Metro Rail coaches. The whole structure is being designed on an elliptical granite podium, with the oval shape signifying the closed loop system of Metro, said HMRL managing director N.V.S. Reddy. It is expected to become a selfie spot.

The inaugural plaza is located next to the entrance of the Miyapur station in the vast landscaped greenery and public plaza being developed by HMRL between Miyapur station and the Metro Rail depot.

This arch form is taken to signify Hyderabad’s heritage like Charminar and other monuments but with a contemporary interpretation. Since the arch is of steel, it’s material properties are expressed by way of a ‘floating’ design. The unique features of the Hyderabad Metro and a comparison with the Nizam State Railway and the Hyderabad Metro are etched on the stainless steel arch panels. The water pond which is at a good height from the ground adds to the structural form of the inaugural plaza, especially at night when the arches are illuminated by strip lights. The inaugural plaque which is in the middle of the pond and in between the three arches will sport latest 3-D look rather than the conventional 2-D design, stated architect Shankar Narayan. Mr Reddy said verdant landscape and lawn on both sides of the plaza would further elevate the ambience and become another place for people to congregate and relax.