Chennai – In a significant development for Chennai’s urban transportation, Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has announced the completion of 20 kilometres of the Phase-2 metro network.
This milestone comes three and a half years after construction commenced on November 21, 2020. The completed sections, spanning both elevated and underground tracks, now link 25 localities across the city and its suburbs. The 116.1-kilometre Phase-2 project, which includes 118 stations, is divided into three corridors. Of the total network, a 10.77-kilometre tunnel and a 10-kilometre elevated section have been completed. This ambitious project features a 42.6-kilometre underground section connected by 45 stations.
A senior CMRL official detailed that the construction strategy involves laying lines in different parts of the city on a piecemeal basis. This segmented approach ensures that delays in one section do not impede progress in others. The areas now linked by elevated viaducts and underground tunnels include Manapakkam, Mugalivakkam, Ramapuram, Kovilambakkam, Perumbakkam, Porur, Thelliaragam, Iyyappanthangal, Kattupakkam, Poonamallee, Alapakkam, Shastri Nagar, Retteri, PTC Colony, Okkiyampet, Karappakam, Okkiyam Thoraipakkam, Vadapalani, Madhavaram, and Venugopal Nagar.
Additionally, construction of approximately 47 stations is ongoing, with various stages of progress noted. Some stations are currently focused on entry and exit construction, while others are developing their sub-structure or super-structure. Despite these advancements, certain sections face delays. Construction has not yet started in some barricaded areas, notably along Old Mahabalipuram Road (OMR) and in Mylapore. On OMR, work on the Sholinganallur to Siruseri Sipcot section has stalled due to challenges in awarding contracts. CMRL officials have assured that work will commence shortly. In Mylapore, a section has been delayed after shopkeepers filed a court petition against their eviction.
A Sholinganallur resident expressed frustration over the delays, stating, “Since January, CMRL has been indicating that a new contract has been awarded and work will start soon, but nothing has materialised. It is imperative that CMRL initiates work immediately to avoid further delays in completing the route.”
The ₹61,843 crore Phase-2 project is crucial for enhancing Chennai’s urban infrastructure and easing commuter congestion. By dividing the work into smaller stretches and awarding multiple contracts, CMRL aims to expedite the construction process and mitigate the impact of any potential delays.
This strategic approach underscores CMRL’s commitment to delivering a comprehensive metro network that will significantly improve connectivity and quality of life for Chennai’s residents. As construction progresses, the completion of additional sections will be eagerly anticipated, bringing the city closer to a modern and efficient public transport system.
