In a major infrastructure boost for Chennai’s bustling suburban rail network, the Railway Board has approved three new railway track projects at an estimated cost of ₹1,270 crore, aimed at easing congestion and improving train frequency across key routes.The projects, falling under the Chennai Division of Southern Railway, are expected to significantly enhance capacity, particularly during peak office hours when lakhs of commuters face severe overcrowding.
Approved Projects
Tambaram – Chengalpattu: Construction of a fourth railway line over 30 km at ₹713 crore
Athipattu – Gummidipoondi: Laying of third and fourth lines across 22.52 km at ₹375 crore
Ambattur – Villivakkam: Addition of fifth and sixth lines over 6.4 km at ₹182 crore
Current Scenario
Chennai suburban rail currently operates around 550 services daily, carrying over 9 lakh passengers across routes including Tambaram, Chengalpattu, Avadi, Tiruvallur, Arakkonam, Gummidipoondi and Velachery. Peak-hour services between 8.30 am–10.00 am and 6.00 pm–8.30 pm remain heavily overcrowded, with limited late-night trains adding to commuter hardship.
Expected Benefits
Railway officials said track expansion is crucial for long-term capacity enhancement. Once completed, the projects are expected to:
Double electric and express train operations
Reduce delays and improve punctuality
Enhance passenger comfort, especially during rush hours
The Railway Board has also cleared detailed project reports for Arakkonam–Chengalpattu (68 km) double line, Arakkonam–Renigunta (76 km) third and fourth lines, and Gummidipoondi–Gudur (90 km) third and fourth lines.
Work will commence in phases, including land acquisition and alignment planning. Officials said the upcoming fourth terminal at Perambur will further strengthen Chennai’s capability to handle additional long-distance services.