Click it and Unblock the Notifications
As traffic congestion continues to increase in Chennai, Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has become one of the fastest and most reliable public transport options in the city, ranking just after suburban trains in popularity. During festivals, weekends, and holidays, when roads are busy and travel to bus terminals,
railway stations, and the airport increases, the metro offers commuters a smooth and stress-free travel experience.
Chennai Metro's Completion of 10 Years of Service
Since beginning operations on June 29, 2015, Chennai Metro has completed 10 years of service. During this period, it has carried around 46.73 crore passengers up to December 31, 2025. Although passenger numbers dropped for a short time during the Covid-19 pandemic, ridership has grown strongly in recent years. In 2025 alone, the metro recorded 11.19 crore passengers, which is the highest yearly total since the service started.
Chennai Metro's Increased Ridership
Passenger numbers have steadily increased over the years. From 2015 to 2018, the metro served 2.80 crore passengers, which rose to 3.28 crore in 2019. In 2020, ridership fell to 1.18 crore due to COVID-19 restrictions. However, numbers improved to 2.53 crore in 2021, followed by strong growth in the following years. Ridership reached 6.09 crore in 2022, 9.11 crore in 2023, 10.52 crore in 2024, and peaked at 11.19 crore in 2025.
Affordable & Digital Options
CMRL encourages affordable and digital travel options. Passengers can enjoy a 20% discount on NCMC cards and use QR tickets through WhatsApp, Paytm, PhonePe, and the CMRL mobile app. The Store Value Pass is also available, except for single-journey paper QR tickets.
Chennai Metro's Network
Serving both government and private employees, Chennai Metro continues to improve city travel through network expansion projects. CMRL has thanked passengers for choosing the metro, keeping stations clean, and supporting its growth. Today, Chennai Metro stands as a safe, fast, and efficient lifeline for millions of daily commuters.
