Chennai, Aug 19:
Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) is planning to construct a multi-storey commercial complex near Arumbakkam Metro station as part of its efforts to maximise the use of Metro land and increase non-fare revenue.
The proposed building will come up on about 1,660 sq m of land behind the station, near the existing parking area on 100 Feet Road.
According to the project plan, the complex will comprise a basement, stilt floor and seven upper floors. The stilt floor will have a four-tier mechanical parking system to accommodate more vehicles within the Metro premises.
Of the seven upper floors, four floors will house commercial establishments, including retail outlets and food shops, while the remaining three floors will be used as office space.
The project is part of CMRL’s Transit-Oriented Development (ToD) initiative, under which land around Metro stations is being developed for commercial and mixed-use purposes. The move is aimed at providing commuters with access to shops and other services while generating additional revenue for the Metro Rail corporation.
CMRL has already developed a Metro-linked commercial facility at Ekkatuthangal, while similar ToD projects are being planned at Guindy, Broadway and Vadapalani.
A fresh construction tender has also been issued for the Arumbakkam project, indicating that CMRL is moving ahead with the development.
Once completed, the project is expected to transform the Arumbakkam Metro station premises into a mixed-use commercial hub, while improving parking facilities and creating additional retail and office space.