Chennai Metro Phase 2 to Introduce World-First Pillar Design Supporting Five Trains Simultaneously
Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) is set to revolutionize urban transit with its Phase 2 expansion, introducing a groundbreaking pillar design capable of holding and servicing up to five metro trains simultaneously, a first-of-its-kind innovation globally. According to a Maalaimalar report, this phase will add three new metro corridors, expanding the network from two to five corridors.
The existing corridors - MGR Chennai Central to St. Thomas Mount and Wimco Nagar to the Airport - will be joined by three new routes:
1. Madhavaram to Sipcot (Siruseri)
2. Poonamallee to Light House
3. Madhavaram to Sholinganallur
To optimize engineering and cost efficiency, Corridors 4 and 5 will share five stations: Alwarthirunagar, Valasaravakkam, Karambakkam, Alapakkam, and Porur.
Innovative Pillar Design
The elevated stretch between Alwarthirunagar and Porur will feature a single pillar supporting four trains simultaneously**—two from Corridor 4 and two from Corridor 5, running in opposite directions. Passengers can seamlessly switch between corridors using lifts and escalators. The design includes:
- First Level: Concourse
- Second Level: Corridor 4
- Third Level: Corridor 5
Additionally, a fifth line (loop line) between Valasaravakkam and Karambakkam will be introduced on the third level. This loop will facilitate train movement between tiers for maintenance or depot access.
Enhanced Connectivity
Phase 2 aims to significantly improve Chennai’s metro connectivity, catering to growing urban transit demands while incorporating cutting-edge engineering solutions. The project underscores CMRL’s commitment to innovation and efficiency in public transportation.
With this expansion, Chennai Metro is poised to set a new benchmark in metro rail systems worldwide.
