Chennai Metro Expansion Tunnelling Work to Begin Between Kolathur and Villivakkam
Chennai Metro’s ambitious Phase II expansion project is set to take a significant leap forward with tunnelling work slated to begin soon between Kolathur and Villivakkam. This development forms a crucial part of the larger metro system overhaul that aims to enhance urban mobility across the city. The 5-kilometre underground stretch is expected to significantly improve connectivity between key localities in the northern and southern parts of Chennai.
The stretch will host five strategically located metro stations, including Kolathur Junction, Srinivasa Nagar, Villivakkam Metro, Villivakkam Bus Terminus, and Villivakkam MTH Road. These stations are poised to serve as essential hubs for commuters, easing congestion on the already overcrowded surface transport network.
The commencement of tunnelling work marks a critical milestone for the Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL), with tunnelling operations expected to begin within the next two weeks. The Rs 63,246 crore Phase II expansion plan aims to lay down three major corridors: Corridor 3 (Madhavaram to SIPCOT), Corridor 4 (Light House to Poonamallee), and Corridor 5 (Madhavaram to Sholinganallur). The project’s design focuses on the integration of underground and elevated sections to optimise urban space and improve the city’s overall mobility.
The underground stretch between Kolathur and Villivakkam is part of Corridor 5, which will bring much-needed metro connectivity to heavily populated areas. The work, which had earlier been delayed due to land acquisition challenges, is now on track. The expansion promises to ease traffic congestion and provide a sustainable alternative to road transport.
Corridors 3 and 4 have already seen significant progress, with work moving ahead on schedule, despite initial hurdles. The Kolathur-Villivakkam stretch, however, has faced some delays due to earlier land acquisition and clearance issues. The commissioning of this stretch will not only connect vital nodes in the city but will also aid in the reduction of travel time, which currently remains a significant bottleneck for commuters.
The success of this phase will set the tone for future projects and ensure that the Chennai Metro becomes a cornerstone of urban mobility in the city.
