Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) is set to resume its long-paused underground Metro Rail construction at Madras Tiruvallur High (MTH) Road in Villivakkam. The project had been on hold for over six months due to the need to divert an Overhead Transmission Tower (OHT) near the Padi bridge. With inputs from the Chennai Corporation, Tamil Nadu Generation and Distribution Corporation (Tangedco) workers are now ready to commence the diversion work, starting with a 900-meter section.The tender for Corridor 5, awarded to TATA at a cost of ₹1,817 crore, includes the construction of five underground stations from Kolathur Junction to Nadhamuni. Despite the delays at MTH Road, other stations in Villivakkam have seen rapid progress. The resumption of construction at MTH Road marks a significant step forward in the project, which aims to enhance the city’s transportation infrastructure.
In related news, CMRL’s innovative tunnel ventilation solution for Phase II has been shortlisted for an award at the 20th International Symposium on Aerodynamics, Ventilation, and Fire in Tunnels in Copenhagen. The study showcases space-saving and cost-reducing strategies in densely populated areas by optimizing ventilation system layouts. Notably, the number of Tunnel Ventilation Fans (TVFs) has been reduced from eight to two without compromising safety or functionality, demonstrating CMRL’s commitment to efficient and sustainable infrastructure development.
The resumption of the MTH Road construction and the recognition of CMRL’s innovative solutions reflect ongoing efforts to improve urban mobility and infrastructure in Chennai. These developments are expected to bring significant benefits to commuters and contribute to the city’s overall growth and modernization.