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Nearly three months after completing the inspection of a section of the Chennai Metro's Phase II project, the Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) is still waiting for some important approvals. These approvals must come from the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) and the Railway Board under the Ministry of
Railways. Without them, CMRL cannot begin train services on the Poonamallee-Porur stretch of Corridor 4.
To speed up the process, CMRL has taken the matter to the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs and the Union government's Project Monitoring Group, which handles delays in major infrastructure projects. The approvals are required for key systems such as trains, signalling, and telecom, tracks, and traction.
Conduction of Detailed Tests
In August, a team from RDSO conducted detailed tests on the Poonamallee-Porur section. These tests help determine whether the trains can run safely and at what speed. While the Railway Board has already approved the track, civil structures, and traction system, two crucial approvals are still pending: RDSO's speed certificate and clearance for the signalling and telecom systems.
Why is the Delay Caused?
According to CMRL officials, such approvals usually arrive within 15 to 30 days. They say this delay is unusual. After inspections, RDSO had asked CMRL some questions, which the agency has already answered. However, the reasons for the continued delay are unclear. A senior CMRL official is expected to meet Railway officials soon to understand whether more details are needed or if there are any concerns.
Grant of Missing Approvals
Once these missing approvals are granted, another important step remains. The Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS) must give the final clearance before the section can be opened to the public. CMRL plans to invite the CRS for inspection once the ongoing station construction on the stretch is fully completed.
