Chennai’s rapidly expanding urban transit network, the Union government has sanctioned the procurement of additional six-car trains for Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL). This development comes in response to the increasing ridership on the Metro, which has seen a sharp uptick in recent months.
The approval, which involves an investment of Rs 2,820.90 crore, will facilitate the acquisition of 28 new six-coach trains, significantly enhancing the capacity of the Metro system. This expansion is seen as a critical move to meet the growing demands of commuters in the city, especially following the substantial rise in ridership observed this year.
Currently, CMRL operates a fleet of 45 four-car trains across its 54-kilometre network, providing essential connectivity from 5 AM to 11 PM daily. However, with the average monthly ridership surpassing three lakh passengers, the existing fleet has been stretched to its limits. In July alone, the ridership surged by 11 lakh compared to the previous month, underscoring the need for a more robust system to accommodate the influx of commuters. The proposal for additional trains was initially submitted by CMRL to the Tamil Nadu state government, which then forwarded it to the Centre’s Department of Economic Affairs. Recognising the urgency of the situation, the Union government swiftly approved the procurement, marking a pivotal step in the ongoing development of Chennai’s Metro infrastructure.
This expansion is expected to significantly alleviate congestion during peak hours, providing a more comfortable and efficient commuting experience for the city’s residents. The new six-car trains will offer increased capacity, thereby reducing the wait times and overcrowding that have become common as more people turn to the Metro for their daily travel needs. The Chennai Metro has been a game-changer for urban mobility in the city, and the addition of these new trains will further solidify its role as a backbone of public transportation. The expanded fleet will not only cater to the growing population but also support the city’s broader goals of reducing traffic congestion and lowering carbon emissions by encouraging greater use of public transit.
The approval also reflects the Union government’s commitment to enhancing public transportation infrastructure in major cities, recognising its importance in fostering sustainable urban development. As Chennai continues to grow, such investments will be crucial in ensuring that the city’s infrastructure keeps pace with the needs of its citizens. The introduction of these six-car trains is anticipated to roll out in phases, with CMRL planning to integrate them into the existing network swiftly. This will be a major step forward in improving the overall capacity and efficiency of Chennai’s Metro system, ensuring it remains a reliable and preferred mode of transport for the city’s burgeoning population.
