The Hyderabad Metro Rail’s (HMR) highly anticipated fully automated and computerised 15-floor multi-level car parking facility is in its final stages of completion. This innovative parking complex features the advanced German Palais parking system, a first of its kind in India. Situated on approximately half an acre of HMR land near Nampally metro station, the complex consists of 10 parking floors and five commercial floors.
With a total built-up area of around 1,44,400 sq. ft., 68% is dedicated to parking, accommodating approximately 250 four-wheelers and 200 two-wheelers. The remaining 32% of the space is utilised for commercial purposes, including shops and a two-screen film theatre. Developed by Bhari Infra Pvt Ltd at an estimated cost of ₹80 crore, the ultra-modern multi-level parking complex comes with a concession period of 50 years.
HMR Managing Director N. V. S. Reddy mentioned on Sunday that the project faced delays due to factors like the Covid pandemic, debt financing challenges, and disruptions in the global supply chain. However, all imported materials have now arrived and are being expertly installed. The multi-level parking (MLP) complex, developed under a public-private partnership (PPP), utilises cutting-edge automated parking technology.
The ground floor of the complex features four ‘In or Out’ (I/O) terminals equipped with turntables. Upon entering the MLP, drivers are issued a smart card, with regular users receiving permanent RFID cards. The driver is directed to their designated I/O terminal, where they swipe the smart card at the card reader to open the terminal gate and easily position the vehicle on the turntable. Mr. Reddy highlighted that the turntable can accommodate any vehicle comfortably, unlike existing automated parking complexes in Delhi and Mumbai where drivers struggle with limited space on the turntables.
The computerised parking system automatically classifies vehicles as SUVs or sedans based on their dimensions. A transporter-shuttle then transports the vehicle via a lift to its allocated spot on the designated floor and parks it. When retrieving the vehicle, the driver pays the parking fee and presents the parking ticket to the card reader. A transporter-shuttle automatically brings the car back, ensuring it is positioned for easy exit without the need for reversing. The parking process takes less than a minute, while retrieval requires just two minutes, as explained by the MD.
The MD also advised MLP developers Hari Kishen Reddy and Bhavana Reddy to expedite finishing works and commence trial runs by next month, as per a press release.
In conclusion, Hyderabad’s upcoming fully automated multi-level car parking complex represents a significant leap in parking technology for India. Despite facing delays, the project’s innovative features, such as the German Palais parking system and advanced automation, promise a seamless and efficient parking experience for users. With its completion nearing and trial runs expected to begin soon, this state-of-the-art facility is poised to redefine parking convenience and efficiency in Hyderabad, setting a new standard for urban parking solutions in the country.
