Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has commenced tunneling operations in Royapettah, marking a significant milestone in the Phase II project of Chennai Metro Rail. The tunnel boring machine (TBM) ‘Bhavani’ has begun its journey towards R.K. Salai, representing a crucial step in the development of this expansive infrastructure project.The Phase II project includes the construction of an underground station at Royapettah, which is part of Corridor 3, stretching from Madhavaram to SIPCOT. This station is being developed at a cost of ₹250 crore and will be situated at a depth of 21.5 meters. The station will cover an area of 150 meters in length and 22 meters in width, facilitating the flow of passengers through this key transit point.
From the Royapettah site, four TBMs will be launched, with two heading towards R.K. Salai and two towards Thousand Lights. TBM ‘Bhavani’ is expected to cover the 910-meter stretch to R.K. Salai in approximately seven months, navigating through a mixture of clay and weathered rock. Another TBM is scheduled to start its journey towards R.K. Salai in the coming weeks.
Corridor 3 is primarily an underground network that will connect important areas such as Madhavaram, Ayanavaram, Purasawalkam, Nungambakkam, Thousand Lights, Royapettah, and Adyar. This corridor is anticipated to become fully operational within four years. At the Adyar site, TBMs that commenced from Greenways Road are making their way towards the Adyar Metro station, although progress has been slower due to challenging rock formations.
In addition to the work on Corridor 3, the Phase II Project also involves the development of the Alapakkam Metro station, which is part of Corridor 4, linking Light House to Poonamallee. This section includes a double-decker construction over a 3.75 km stretch, encompassing stations at Alwarthirunagar, Valasarawakkam, Karambakkam, and Alapakkam.
Moreover, the Poonamallee Depot, being constructed at a cost of ₹187 crore, will serve as a repair and maintenance hub for 56 six-coach driverless trains. This depot is a critical component of the project, ensuring the smooth operation and upkeep of the metro fleet.
The ongoing work on Chennai Metro Rail’s Phase II project underscores CMRL’s commitment to enhancing urban mobility and connectivity in Chennai.