In response to the Cyclone alert for October 15, 16, and 17, issued by the Indian Meteorological Department, Chennai Metro Rail has announced an increase in services to cater to the anticipated passenger demand during the forecasted heavy rainfall. The additional services aim to ensure uninterrupted public transportation during this period of inclement weather.
Starting from October 15, Metro services will operate from 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM. The first train will depart at 5:00 AM and the last train at 11:00 PM from all terminals. To facilitate smooth travel during peak hours (8:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM), the frequency of trains has been adjusted as follows:
Green Line: (Puratchi Thalaivar Dr. M.G. Ramachandran Central Metro to St. Thomas Mount Metro) – Every 5 minutes
Blue Line: (Airport to Wimco Nagar Depot) – Every 6 minutes
Washermenpet Metro to Arignar Alandur Metro – Every 3 minutes
During non-peak hours (5:00 AM to 8:00 AM; 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM; and 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM), trains on both the Green and Blue lines will run every 7 minutes. After 10:00 PM, the frequency will be reduced to one train every 15 minutes until 11:00 PM.
To manage the increased frequency on the Green Line, the direct service between Puratchi Thalaivar Dr. M.G. Ramachandran Central Metro and Airport Metro via Koyambedu and Vadapalani will be temporarily suspended. Passengers traveling to the airport from the Green Line are advised to interchange at Arignar Alandur Metro.
Additionally, Chennai Metro has urged passengers to avoid parking their vehicles in low-lying areas prone to water stagnation, such as the St. Thomas Mount and Arumbakkam metro station parking lots, during the cyclone alert from October 15 to 17. Updates on service schedules will be provided based on evolving weather conditions to ensure passenger safety.
These enhanced services by Chennai Metro Rail aim to ensure that the city remains connected, even during the anticipated heavy rains and possible disruptions caused by the cyclone.