The Chennai Metro Rail Corporation has announced the commencement of construction for the metro tunnel between Purasaiwakkam and Kelleys starting in July. This development is a significant milestone in the ongoing Phase II Metro Rail Project, which aims to enhance the city’s public transportation network.Phase II of the Chennai Metro Rail Project spans a total of 116.1 kilometers across three lines. One of these lines, the 45.4-kilometer route stretching from Madhavaram to Siruseri via Sipcot, includes several critical tunneling works, notably those at Madhavaram Dairy Farm and the Green Corridor. The forthcoming tunnel work from Purasaiwakkam to Kelleys is a crucial part of this extensive project.
According to Chennai Metro Rail officials, both tunnel and elevated construction activities are progressing at various points along the three lines of the second phase. Of the 23 planned tunneling machines, 18 are currently in operation, with significant work underway at over 40 sites across the city. Groundwork for the tunnel between Purasaiwakkam and Kelleys has been completed, and an underground mining machine is set to begin drilling approximately 300 meters of this section. This portion of the project is expected to adhere to the planned schedule.
The initial 9-kilometer stretch from Madhavaram Dairy Farm to Kelleys utilizes seven mining machines. Recently, a 925-meter tunnel from Ayanavaram to Otteri was successfully completed, showcasing the project’s steady progress.
“The commencement of the tunnel construction from Purasaiwakkam to Kelleys marks a significant advancement in our Phase II Metro Rail Project. We are committed to ensuring timely completion while maintaining high standards of safety and efficiency,” stated a Chennai Metro Rail official.
The ongoing Phase II project is set to revolutionize Chennai’s metro system, providing enhanced connectivity and easing traffic congestion.