Tamil Nadu CM Vijay inspects Chennai Metro expansion projects

Tamil Nadu chief minister C Joseph Vijay on Wednesday reviewed the progress of Phase I and Phase II of the Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) project, assessing construction works, operational preparedness and future expansion plans.

The chief minister reviewed key construction activities, train service readiness and the status of upcoming Metro expansion projects.

He inspected train operating areas and major construction sites linked to the Chennai Metro expansion. He was accompanied by N Marie Wilson, Minister for Finance, Planning and Development; Alandur MLA M Harish; Maduravoyal MLA P Rhevanth Charan; Chief Secretary M Saikumar; and senior officials of Chennai Metro Rail Limited.

Vijay began his inspection by travelling on a Metro train from the Government Estate Metro Station to the Nandanam Metro Station.

He purchased a ticket for the journey and interacted with commuters during the trip, taking selfies with them.

According to a press release, the chief minister later visited the Operations Control Centre at the Chennai Metro Rail Limited headquarters in Nandanam, where officials briefed him on the monitoring and management of train operations.

During the review of Phase I and Phase II works, Vijay discussed future Metro expansion plans and feasibility studies before issuing necessary directions to officials.

He also enquired about last-mile connectivity and feeder transport facilities available for passengers travelling from Metro stations to their final destinations, the release said.

The chief minister then inspected the 101-foot-high Metro bridge at Kathipara under Corridor 5 of Phase II, which connects Madhavaram and Sholinganallur.

He reviewed the construction of the “balanced cantilever” elevated bridge and enquired about the construction methodology and the progress of the project.

The bridge is being built without ground support pillars. The release said the work is being carried out through careful planning and strict safety measures without disrupting Phase I Metro services or road traffic.

Vijay later inspected the Porur Bypass Metro Station under Corridor 4 of Phase II.

He travelled on a trial run of the Unattended Train Operation (driverless) Metro train between the Porur Bypass and Poonamallee Bypass Metro stations.

The chief minister also reviewed the operational readiness of the new corridor ahead of its expected opening, the release said.