In a pioneering move, Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) is set to construct a new underground metro line from Panagal Park to Boat Club via Nandanam as part of Phase II.
This 1.9 km stretch will be the first in the city to be laid beneath an existing operational metro tunnel at Nandanam station, without disrupting ongoing train services.Currently, the existing metro tunnel at Nandanam operates at a depth of 16.5 meters, while the new tunnel will be dug deeper at 29.8 meters, nearly double the depth.
This will make Nandanam the cityâs only location with two active metro lines passing through.CMRL has secured permission from the Commissioner of Railway Safety to start work, expected to commence in early December.
The Tunnel Boring Machine has already been positioned at Panagal Park and will begin tunneling in about three weeks. Advanced robotic monitoring systems will be used during construction to ensure structural stability and safety.
Engineers anticipate encountering mostly clay-rich soil and broken clay rocks near Nandanam station along the route. Despite the deep tunneling beneath an active metro station, officials confirm that train operations on the existing line will continue unaffected.
This new metro line, stretching from Poonamallee to Lighthouse through Nandanam, is expected to significantly improve city connectivity and enhance Chennaiâs growing metro network.