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The opening of two important rail projects in Chennai, the Velachery-St Thomas Mount MRTS Extension and the first stretch of Chennai Metro Phase II, has been delayed due to pending approvals and unfinished construction work.
MRTS Extension Between Velachery & St Thomas Mount
The 4.5-km MRTS extension between Velachery and St Thomas Mount was expected to open earlier, but it is still waiting for final safety clearance from the Chief Commissioner of Railway Safety (CCRS). The safety inspection was conducted on March 5, but the final approval required to start passenger services has not yet been issued. Until the required corrections and additional works suggested by the inspection team are completed, train services on this stretch cannot begin.
Reasons behind the Delay
This extension has been delayed for many years and is one of the longest-pending urban rail projects in the city. Once operational, it will allow MRTS trains to run directly from Chennai Beach to St Thomas Mount instead of stopping at Velachery. The line will also include two new stations at Puzhuthivakkam and Adambakkam, improving rail connectivity for several neighbourhoods in south Chennai.
Chennai Metro Phase II
At the same time, the initial section of Chennai Metro Phase II, the corridor between Poonamallee Bypass and Vadapalani, is also facing delays. Although the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS) has given conditional approval for the line, train operations cannot start yet because some construction work is still incomplete. About 26 deck slabs need to be installed on a double-decker viaduct before the line can become fully operational.
Metro Services between Poonamallee & Porur
Officials had considered starting partial metro services between Poonamallee and Porur first, with the full service up to Vadapalani beginning later, after the remaining work is finished. However, the delays highlight ongoing coordination and infrastructure challenges in expanding the city's public transport network.
Once completed, both projects are expected to significantly improve connectivity and make travel easier for commuters across Chennai.
