Southern Railway Covers MRTS Operating Costs During Two‑Year CMRL Transition
Chennai’s urban transportation landscape is on the cusp of a major transformation as the state government and Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) prepare to take over the Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS). In a significant development, Southern Railway has announced that it will bear the operational costs for the Chennai-Velachery MRTS for a transitional period of two years. This decision, approved by the Railway Board, is a critical step towards creating an integrated, efficient, and user-friendly public transit network for the city. This merger, long-awaited by commuters, is seen as a key component in the broader vision of creating a sustainable, gender-neutral, and equitable urban environment for Chennai. The integration promises to streamline services and enhance connectivity, paving the way for a more seamless commuting experience.
The official transfer of MRTS assets and operations to the Tamil Nadu government and CMRL has been a complex process, but the recent agreement provides a clear roadmap for the transition. Under the new arrangement, Southern Railway will not only cover the operational expenses of the MRTS for two years but will also provide its existing Electric Multiple Units (EMUs) and handle their maintenance at no charge. This goodwill gesture is designed to ensure a smooth handover and prevent any disruption to services for the thousands of daily commuters. A key part of the deal is a provision stating that if the takeover is not finalised within the two-year grace period, the state government will be charged for all operational and maintenance costs on an actual basis. This stipulation adds a layer of urgency and accountability to the process.
Beyond the financial aspects, the merger is a testament to inter-agency cooperation. Southern Railway has committed to training CMRL personnel in the operations and maintenance of the MRTS infrastructure and rolling stock. Railway staff will remain deployed during this interim period at no cost to the state, allowing CMRL to gradually recruit and develop its own dedicated workforce and facilities. This collaborative approach is vital for ensuring a seamless transition and maintaining service quality. The integration also holds the promise of revitalising the underutilised MRTS, which has long been plagued by low ridership, poor upkeep, and a fragmented fare system. By merging with the modern and popular metro network, the MRTS is set to benefit from CMRL’s expertise in station management, ticketing, and maintenance.
The merger is a pivotal move towards building a truly sustainable and equitable urban mobility ecosystem in Chennai. By integrating the two systems, the city can create a unified ticketing system, improved connectivity between different modes of transport, and a more coherent network that serves all sections of the population. An integrated system with a single fare structure and seamless interchanges would encourage more residents to switch from private vehicles to public transport, directly contributing to a reduction in carbon emissions and urban congestion. Furthermore, the planned station upgrades and improved amenities will make public transport more accessible and attractive to a diverse range of users, including women, the elderly, and persons with disabilities, thereby promoting a more gender-neutral and inclusive city. The future of certain key assets, such as the railway yards at Fort and Chennai Beach, will be determined by a joint committee of state and railway officials, ensuring that their use aligns with the long-term vision of a unified urban transit network. This collaborative effort sets a powerful precedent for other Indian cities looking to create a cohesive and sustainable public transport system.
