Chennai Metro Phase 2: Metro station construction begins, promises enhanced connectivity

Construction of metro stations at key locations such as Otteri, Pattalam and Perambur along Corridor 3 of the second phase of the Chennai Metro Rail Project has started.

With a total length of 45.4 km, the corridor is the longest in the 116-km second phase of the scheme, which aims to ease travel and reduce congestion in Chennai.

Corridor 3 will connect various areas from Madhavaram to SIPCOT and pass through the densely populated areas of Madhavaram, Purasawalkam, Perambur, Royapettah, Thirumayilai, Mandaiveli, Adyar, Taramani, Perungudi, Thoraipakkam and Siruseri, LiveChennai.com reported.

The commencement of work on Corridor 3 is crucial, especially since this section (Madhavaram-Taramani) initially faced delays due to tendering issues, leading to delays of over a year. However, tunneling work on this section, as well as station construction, are currently gathering pace.

Officials of the Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) have highlighted the challenges and time-consuming nature of constructing underground stations as compared to elevated stations. It first involves the construction of underground diaphragm walls and then the construction of various station components such as base slabs, roof slabs and concourse slabs. In densely populated areas, careful monitoring of vibration levels ensures the safety of adjacent buildings during tunnel and station construction.

A notable feature is the unique design of the Pattalam station within Corridor 3, which is a stacked station with a concourse on the first level, an upper track line on the second level and a descending track line on the third level.

As construction progresses, the Chennai Metro Rail Phase 2 remains an important infrastructure initiative aimed at transforming transportation in the city and promoting better connectivity.