Fast Track to the Future: Chennai Metro’s Double-Decker Dream Approved

Image Source: One India

Chennai’s southern commuters have reason to celebrate as the Tamil Nadu government has officially approved the much-awaited Chennai Metro Rail extension from the Airport to the Kilambakkam bus terminus. This transformative project, pegged at ₹9,335 crore, aims to revolutionize connectivity between the city’s core and its rapidly expanding southern suburbs.

Key Highlights:

Project Scope: The 15.46-km elevated metro corridor along GST Road connecting Chennai Airport and the Kalaignar Centenary Bus Terminus in Kilambakkam, with 13 new stations at strategic locations such as Pallavaram, Chrompet, Tambaram, Perungalathur, and Vandalur.
Double-Decker Design: The corridor will have a double-decker design—an elevated road at the first level and the metro line above—facilitating easy integration with existing infrastructure and reducing land acquisition issues.
Land Acquisition: Approximately 60 acres will be purchased (28 acres private, 30 acres government) with the acquisition process to start once funds are disbursed. Private owners and central governments (for defense land along the airport) will be negotiated with.
Strategic Impact: The expansion will have a direct link between the airport and the Kilambakkam bus terminus, a large intercity transport center, alleviating traffic jams and shortening travel times for thousands of daily commuters.
Timeline & Next Steps: Before final central government sanction, Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) is now free to initiate technical surveys, land acquisition, and groundwork to expedite implementation. The project is to be completed in three years.