Chennai Metro Koyambedu-Alandur stretch delayed, now set for 2027 opening

Revised Deadline for Key Corridor

Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has pushed back the completion date for its crucial Koyambedu-Alandur metro corridor. The 13-kilometre stretch, part of the city's ambitious Phase 2 expansion, is now expected to open only in 2027. The original deadline for the line was set for 2025.

CMRL officials confirmed the delay, attributing it to a combination of factors. Work on the line, which runs through densely populated and commercially active parts of the city, has faced persistent hurdles.

Land and Utility Issues Slow Progress

Land acquisition has been a primary bottleneck. The alignment cuts through areas where private land parcels had to be negotiated, a process that took longer than anticipated. State government agencies are still finalising some transfers, sources said.

Relocating underground utilities has also proven to be a major challenge. Water mains, sewage lines, and electrical cables running along the proposed route have required meticulous planning and execution. Officials noted that in several stretches, work could not proceed until these utilities were shifted.

Segment Details and Significance

The Koyambedu-Alandur line is a critical part of Chennai's metro network. It will link the sprawling Koyambedu bus terminus, one of Asia's largest, directly with the southern suburb of Alandur. This connection is expected to significantly ease road traffic on the congested Inner Ring Road.

The corridor includes several stations that will serve as important interchanges. At Alandur, it will connect with the existing Blue Line, allowing passengers to travel seamlessly to the airport and central Chennai. The stretch will also pass through areas like Nerkundram and Vadapalani.

Phase 2 Overall Status

This delay on the Koyambedu-Alandur section is not isolated. The entire Phase 2 project, which spans over 100 kilometres across three corridors, has seen staggered timelines. Other segments, such as the Madhavaram to Sholinganallur line, are progressing at a faster pace.

CMRL has stressed that safety remains the top priority. Officials said the extra time will be used to ensure all structural and operational standards are met. They have not yet provided a revised monthly or quarterly timeline for the remaining works.

What Happens Next

Commuters will have to wait longer for relief on this key route. CMRL is expected to issue a more detailed progress update and revised cost estimates in the coming months. For now, the 2027 target stands as the official deadline for the Koyambedu-Alandur corridor.