CHENNAI: In a significant move to enhance connectivity, Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has submitted a revised Detailed Project Report (DPR) to the state government for extending the metro rail from Chennai airport to Kilambakkam bus terminus. The updated proposal, integrating the metro line with an elevated road, comes at an estimated cost of Rs 9,335 crore — Rs 5,000 crore higher than the initial projection.
CMRL managing director MA Siddique presented the DPR for the 15.46 km stretch, which will feature 13 stations, to K Gopal, additional chief secretary to the government, Special Initiatives Department.
The original DPR, submitted earlier, was revised following instructions to incorporate an elevated road along with the metro corridor.
As per the new plan, the metro line will be constructed at Level-2 while the elevated road will be at Level-1, ensuring seamless connectivity to the Kilambakkam bus terminus. Additionally, intermediate ramps near Tambaram will facilitate access to the Outer Ring Road. The elevated road will extend directly to the Kilambakkam bus stand, with provisions for a future extension to Chengalpattu.
The proposed metro extension will traverse major suburban areas, including Pallavaram, Chrompet, Tambaram, Perungalathur and Vandalur.
This alignment will significantly enhance connectivity between key transport hubs such as Kilambakkam bus terminus, Chennai International Airport and Tambaram railway station, offering commuters a more efficient transit option.
The feasibility study for the airport-Kilambakkam metro line was conducted in 2019 by Larsen & Toubro Infrastructure Engineering.
However, the preparation of the DPR faced delays, with CMRL submitting the initial report in early 2022.
A major hurdle was the state highways department’s plan to construct an elevated corridor up to Tambaram, which conflicted with the proposed metro route.
After extensive discussions, both agencies reached an agreement regarding the metro viaduct’s level and the height of the elevated corridor.
During the feasibility study, CMRL evaluated three possible alignments. These include a 16-km stretch along GST Road; a 19-km route extending from GST Road to Tambaram and Mudichur road; a 20-km alignment passing through Airport-Cantonment-Pallavaram Bus Stand, GST Road via Hastinapuram and Tambaram West, and Mudichur Road to Kilambakkam.
Despite concerns that the GST road alignment’s proximity to the existing suburban rail service (Beach to Tambaram) could impact metro ridership, CMRL ultimately selected this route. The decision was based on its fully elevated nature and minimal land acquisition requirements compared to the other options.
With the submission of the revised DPR, the project moves one step closer to implementation, promising improved public transport infrastructure and seamless connectivity for Chennai’s commuters. However, it depends on the clearance from the union government.
