Chennai Metro to start operations on OMR stretch by 2027
Posted on: 30/May/2023 12:01:08 PM
Chennai Metro Rail Ltd. (CMRL) is set to bring a transformative change to the public transport system along Old Mahabalipuram Road (OMR) with the upcoming Phase II project. By 2027, CMRL plans to commence train services from Nehru Nagar in Perungudi to Siruseri, covering a crucial 20-kilometer stretch.
The Phase II project, spanning 116 kilometers and costing ₹61,843 crore, includes corridor 3 (Madhavaram to SIPCOT) of which the Nehru Nagar to Siruseri section is a part. The proposed corridor will feature several stations, including Nehru Nagar, Kandhanchavadi, Perungudi, Thoraipakkam, Mettukuppam, PTC Colony, Okkiyampet, Karapakkam, Okkiyam Thoraipakkam, Sholinganallur, Sholinganallur Lake I Metro, Sholinganallur Lake II Metro, Semmancheri I Metro, Semmencheri II Metro, Gandhi Nagar, Navalur, Siruseri, Siruseri SIPCOT I Metro, and Siruseri SIPCOT II Metro.
According to CMRL officials, the Madhavaram to Taramani stretch will be underground, while the remaining portion until the last station in Siruseri will be elevated. Dividing the tender for this section into two parts, Nehru Nagar to Sholinganallur and Sholinganallur to SIPCOT, CMRL awarded the contracts last year. The construction work is underway in various locations along OMR, with a projected completion date in early 2027.
Commuters traveling from OMR to different parts of the city currently endure long hours of travel during peak hours. Recognizing this, CMRL included the Nehru Nagar to Siruseri stretch as a priority in the Phase II project. While commuters anticipated that this section would be among the first to be operational due to its significant benefits, they may need to wait for another four years before it becomes accessible.
Sources indicate that completing the stretch within the given timeframe may be challenging as the work has only recently gained momentum. Additionally, the establishment of a small depot with 8-10 stabling lines is necessary to facilitate train maintenance and basic repairs before opening the stretch to commuters.
The successful implementation of the Chennai Metro Rail`s Phase II project will alleviate the commuting woes of thousands of residents and workers along OMR. With improved connectivity, reduced travel time, and enhanced convenience, the new metro line promises to revolutionize public transportation and contribute to the sustainable development of Chennai.
