Chennai Metro Rail plans two new corridors connecting Kilambakkam, Chengalpattu, Assisi Nagar, Wimco Nagar

Chennai Metro expansion gets a boost

Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has proposed two new corridors to extend the city's rapid transit network. The first corridor will connect Kilambakkam to Chengalpattu, covering a distance of 23.5 km. The second corridor will run from Assisi Nagar to Wimco Nagar, spanning 15.7 km.

CMRL officials said the detailed project report for both corridors is being prepared. It will be submitted to the Tamil Nadu government for approval within the next few months. The plan is part of Phase 2 expansion of the Chennai metro network.

Kilambakkam-Chengalpattu: A 23.5 km stretch

The Kilambakkam-Chengalpattu corridor will have 16 stations along its route. It will serve the rapidly growing suburban areas south of Chennai. Kilambakkam is already a major bus terminus, and the metro link will provide seamless connectivity for daily commuters.

Chengalpattu, an important district headquarters, is expected to benefit from reduced travel time to Chennai city. The corridor will also connect with the existing Chennai suburban railway network at certain points, officials indicated.

Assisi Nagar-Wimco Nagar: A 15.7 km link

The second proposed corridor, Assisi Nagar to Wimco Nagar, will have 12 stations. It will pass through densely populated residential and industrial areas in north Chennai. Wimco Nagar is an industrial hub, and Assisi Nagar is a key neighbourhood near the coast.

This corridor aims to improve last-mile connectivity for thousands of workers and residents. It will also link with the existing metro line at Washermanpet station, providing a direct route to the city centre.

Project status and next steps

CMRL is currently conducting feasibility studies and environmental assessments for both corridors. The agency plans to take up the projects under a public-private partnership model. Land acquisition and funding arrangements will be finalised after the state government's approval.

Traffic congestion on the GST Road and NH-45, which connect Chennai to Chengalpattu, has been a growing concern. The new metro corridors are expected to offer a faster alternative to road travel. CMRL has not yet announced a timeline for construction or completion.

The state government is expected to review the detailed project report by early next year. If approved, the corridors will significantly expand Chennai's metro network, currently operating on two lines covering about 54 km.