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The Chennai Metro Rail's first section under Phase II, running from Poonamallee to Porur on Corridor 4, is now expected to open in January instead of December. According to a report in The Hindu, Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) officials explained that a few pending works and approvals have pushed
the date slightly forward. They are working to complete the remaining construction and obtain final permissions within the next few weeks.
Reason Behind the Delay
The delay is mainly due to slow progress in building some of the station entry and exit structures, as well as the time required to receive statutory clearances. Important approvals from the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) and the Railway Board are still pending. An official said that the matter has already been escalated to the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs. They expect the signalling approval and the RDSO speed certificate to be issued around December 8 or 9.
Once these documents arrive, CMRL will send a formal request to the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS) for inspection. This request will include the RDSO speed certificate and the ISI certificate. The CRS inspection is a mandatory step, and only after the CRS issues the final safety certificate can the stretch be officially opened for passengers.
Additional Details
Sources also mentioned that completing the remaining entry and exit points at stations like Karayanchavadi and Kumananchavadi may be challenging within the limited time available. Despite this, CMRL officials say they are confident of meeting the new timeline. They noted that more than 93% of the work between Poonamallee and Porur is already finished. Additional manpower has been deployed to complete construction by the end of December, and at least one entry/exit at both pending stations is expected to be ready.
After receiving all required approvals, CMRL will seek an inauguration date from both the State and Central governments.
