There have been some talks going on now regarding trimming the size of the corridor 3 of phase-2 metro train project in Chennai. It is said that CMRL might take a re-look at Corridor 3 of phase-2 project. Information collected is that instead of SIPCOT the metro line might be terminated at Sholinganallur. A final decision would be taken soon.
It must be taken into account that the Sholinganallur- Siruseri stretch is a very important corridor because it runs along the IT Expressway. The estimated cost of the phase-2 metro line project in Chennai would be Rs 61843 crores. This metro line would be for a distance of 45.3km.In the recent high level meeting in Chennai, it was decided that there might be reduction in the length of this stretch.
As per some sources belonging to CMRL it was clear that the department has been thinking of the possibility of building the stretch till Sholinganallur only. To arrive at the final decision, discussions would have to be held with various stakeholders and certain issues would have to be sorted out.
This option is being explored by CMRL because of the issues regarding land acquisition along this stretch from Sholinganallur and SIPCOT. It is known that between Sholinganallur and SIPCOT 10 metro stations were planned to be constructed. These stations are Sholinganallur Lake, Sri Ponniamman Temple, Sathyabama University, Saint Joseph`s College, Semmencheri, Gandhi Nagar, Navalur, Siruseri, SIPCOT-1 and SIPCOT-2.
From various localities in Chennai, many IT professionals and students travel to these above said places. During the Coronavirus pandemic, the number of commuters has reduced and now most of the restrictions have been removed and the offices are also resuming their activities in full flow. The source revealed that the stretch was planned as an elevated one and due to road widths the construction of viaducts and stations would be easy.