Chennai is set to undergo a transformative shift in urban mobility as the Tamil Nadu government prepares to formalise a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Indian Railways in December, paving the way for Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) to assume full operation, management, and maintenance of the Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS). The project is slated for completion by December 2027.
Officials confirmed that the state has provided in-principle approval for the MoU and finalised the Comprehensive Mobility Plan for Chennai, which will be rolled out this week. The agreement awaits formal concurrence from the Railways, expected later this year. Once implemented, the transfer of MRTS to CMRL is anticipated to enhance operational efficiency, streamline commuter services, and integrate the system with the city’s broader urban transport network. The decision follows months of coordination between the Chennai Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority (CUMTA), CMRL, and Railways officials. Since receiving Railways’ approval in July, CUMTA has been drafting the MoU and finalising the detailed project report to accelerate the takeover process. Experts indicate that CMRL’s advanced management systems and operational expertise will be crucial in addressing the underutilisation and inefficiencies historically associated with the MRTS.
Commuters have long expressed concerns over MRTS services, which were originally designed to handle approximately 6.5 lakh passengers daily but currently cater to around 80,000. Officials note that integrating MRTS with Metro operations could significantly improve service reliability, frequency, and overall commuter experience, while fostering greater adoption of public transport and reducing road congestion. Urban transport planners emphasise that this move aligns with Chennai’s broader sustainability goals, including eco-friendly and gender-neutral mobility solutions. Upgrading MRTS infrastructure under Metro management is expected to improve energy efficiency, enhance accessibility, and support equitable urban mobility. The initiative is also likely to reduce the city’s carbon footprint by shifting more commuters from private vehicles to public transit systems.
Officials highlighted that the comprehensive plan will include phased upgrades to MRTS stations, modernisation of rolling stock, and digital integration with Metro services. This systematic approach aims to create a seamless, sustainable, and resilient transport network capable of meeting Chennai’s long-term urban mobility needs. With implementation scheduled over the next four years, the MRTS-Metro integration could serve as a model for other Indian cities facing similar underutilisation of suburban rail infrastructure. Officials stress that careful planning, regular monitoring, and citizen-centric design will be key to the project’s success, ensuring that the city’s public transport ecosystem evolves sustainably and equitably.
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