The wait for seamless airport access in Chennai is shortening! Progress on the much-anticipated metro link from Poonamallee Bypass to the upcoming Parandur airport is accelerating. Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has received bids from five firms to prepare a detailed project report (DPR) for the 43.63 km line boasting 19 stations. This crucial step brings the project finalization closer within a year.
The DPR will delve into the nitty-gritty of the project, outlining the line’s length, type (elevated, underground, or at-grade), station locations, depot details, train specifications, and projected ridership. Additionally, it will address last-mile connectivity and estimate the total cost.
This exciting development builds upon the existing Lighthouse-Poonamallee Bypass corridor (Phase 4), a part of which is expected to be operational by the end of 2025. Plans suggest Parandur will likely have two stations – one on the city side of the airport and another near the passenger terminal.
Envisioning the future experience, passengers can look forward to a smooth metro ride directly to Parandur’s new terminal. This line will also integrate seamlessly with existing metro stations, allowing effortless transfers between the current Meenambakkam airport and the upcoming Parandur facility.
Speaking of Parandur airport itself, the first phase, encompassing a domestic and international terminal, is on track for completion by 2029. This greenfield airport, with an estimated investment of Rs 20,000 crore, is poised to significantly enhance Chennai’s aviation capacity.
The combined efforts on the metro link and the new airport construction paint a promising picture for Chennai’s future as a major transportation hub.
