Chennai Metro to Launch Feasibility Study for Rapid Transit System
The Tamil Nadu government has announced the launch of a feasibility study for the establishment of a Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) in Chennai. This initiative, modelled on the successful Semi High-Speed Railway (SHR) project between New Delhi and Meerut, is aimed at providing faster, more efficient transport solutions to ease congestion and improve connectivity in the region.The feasibility study will be conducted by Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) and will focus on setting up high-speed trains that can operate at speeds of 160 kmph. The study will evaluate the viability of three major corridors:
Chennai-Chengalpattu-Tindivanam-Villupuram (167 km), Chennai-Kanchipuram-Vellore (140 km), and Coimbatore-Tiruppur-Erode-Salem (185 km). These routes have been selected based on their high passenger demand and potential for improving regional accessibility.Officials noted that the project would provide considerable benefits to commuters from Chennai’s outskirts, enabling them to access the city’s business and commercial hubs more efficiently. It is expected to significantly reduce travel time for those residing in suburban areas, making daily commutes faster and more convenient.
In addition to the RRTS study, the government has also outlined plans for various metro rail projects within the city. Detailed project reports (DPRs) are being prepared for metro extensions, including routes from Tambaram to Velachery via Guindy (21 km) and from Lighthouse to High Court (6 km).
Moreover, extensions to the Chennai airport metro line to Kalaignar Centenary Bus Terminus in Kilambakkam (15.46 km) and a 21.76 km extension from Koyambedu to Pattabiram via Avadi are also under consideration.Furthermore, the government is seeking equity contributions from the union government for several key infrastructure projects, including the 27.9 km metro line extension from Poonamallee to Sunkuvarchatram via Sriperumpudur, as well as metro developments in Coimbatore.
The RRTS initiative, alongside other metro and infrastructure developments, is expected to strengthen Chennai’s transport network, reduce traffic congestion, and improve the overall quality of life for commuters. The feasibility study will play a crucial role in determining the project’s viability and potential impact on the region’s economic growth.
