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Chennai Metro Rail project’s phase II – with 128 stations – gets Centre’s nod

After repeated requests from Tamil Nadu government, the Centre has approved funds for phase II of Chennai Metro Rail project.

Baskar P

Published Oct 04, 2024 | 12:51 AM ⚊ Updated Oct 04, 2024 | 12:51 AM

Centre sanctions funds for Chennai metro rail project phase II

Representative image of Chennai metro rail (Wikimedia Commons)

The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved funding for the second phase of the Chennai Metro Rail project on Thursday, 3 October.

This comes amid repeated requests from the Tamil Nadu government for fund allocation. Currently, metro trains are operational on two routes in Chennai, with the next phase expanding to three additional routes.

Phase II of the project will consist of three corridors, spanning a total stretch of 118.9 kilometres and featuring 128 stations. The project is expected to cost ₹63,246 crore and is slated for completion by 2027. Once fully operational, Chennai will boast a metro rail network spanning 173 kilometres.

Plans for three corridors

  • First corridor – From Madhavaram to SIPCOT, covering 45.8 kilometres with 50 stations.
  • Second corridor – From Lighthouse to Poonamallee bypass, covering 26.1 kilometres with 30 stations.
  • Third corridor – From Madhavaram to Sholinganallur, covering 47 kilometres with 48 stations.

Addressing the media in Delhi, Union railway minister Ashwini Vaishnav said, “The Union Cabinet has approved the allocation of ₹63,246 crore for phase two of the Chennai Metro project. As a rapidly growing city and an important economic hub, it is crucial to build the necessary infrastructure for Chennai. A comprehensive plan has been prepared, and this phase will compromise of 128 metro stations covering a total length of 118 kilometers.”

Also Read: Starvation or food poisoning? Here’s what caused the death of a migrant worker in Chennai

Tamil Nadu CM expresses gratitude

In response to the funding approval, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin expressed his gratitude to the Union government.

In a post on his X page, he wrote, “Thank you to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for agreeing to our request and approving the second phase of the Chennai Metro Rail project following my last meeting with him. As the long-standing demand of the people of Tamil Nadu has been resolved, there is hope that we will complete this project soon.”

It is important to note that CM Stalin had only recently went to Delhi and made a personal appeal to PM Modi in this regard.

(Edited by Neena)

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