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Chennai Metro Rail's Phase II stations are being planned as more than just transport hubs. Unlike the Phase I network, the new stations will also offer spaces where commuters can shop, eat, and spend time comfortably. The aim is to make metro stations vibrant public spaces while improving the travel experience.
Chennai Metro Work
Work to create these spaces has already begun at some locations, and preliminary activities are now underway at 11 underground stations in the Phase II network. According to officials of Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL), the stations selected for this development include Chetpet, Royapettah, Sterling Road, Nungambakkam, R.K. Salai, and Adyar Depot on Corridor 3 (Madhavaram-SIPCOT), along with Kutchery Road, Alwarpet, Bharathidasan Road, Boat Club, and Nandanam on Corridor 4 (Poonamallee-Light House).
Officials believe that such transit-oriented development will not only improve the surrounding neighbourhoods but also encourage more people to use the metro system. In addition, these projects are expected to generate extra revenue for CMRL and strengthen its financial position.
Important Chennai Metro Developments
The proposed developments include small commercial spaces such as retail shops, food outlets, and kiosks. Officials said that many of these stations have space available above their entry and exit structures. Most locations can accommodate a ground floor along with three additional floors. CMRL has already invited bids from firms to prepare designs for these spaces. Once the designs are finalized, construction work will begin. After the stations become operational, these commercial spaces can be leased to businesses.
Unlike the Phase I network, where property development projects were introduced only after metro services had started, CMRL is planning these facilities alongside the construction of Phase II stations. Officials noted that building such structures during the construction stage is much easier and more cost-effective. Making changes later, after the stations are completed and operational, can be difficult and expensive. This approach is expected to create modern, convenient, and commercially vibrant metro stations from the very beginning.