Chennai Metro Railway expands with Koyambedu-Avadi-Pattabiram project

The Chennai Metro Railway has received administrative approval from the Tamil Nadu government to begin preparatory work on its long-awaited Koyambedu–Avadi–Pattabiram corridor. Stretching over 21.76 km, this fully elevated corridor will link several key neighbourhoods and is seen as a major step toward strengthening connectivity in Chennai’s western belt.

With this clearance, Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) can now start essential groundwork, which includes land acquisition, utility shifting, traffic management, and survey works. This comes at a crucial time, as the project is still awaiting final approval from the Union government. The State had earlier submitted the detailed project report (DPR) to the Centre, but for the clearance to move forward, CMRL also needs to provide a Comprehensive Mobility Plan (CMP) to the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.

The Tamil Nadu government’s order, issued on 18 August, allows CMRL to commence early-stage activities without waiting for central approval. The corridor, which will be constructed along the Outer Ring Road alignment, is expected to cost ₹9,928.33 crore. Out of this, the State has allocated ₹2,442 crore as subordinate debt to CMRL exclusively for preparatory work. A large portion of this amount will go toward land acquisition, including compensation for structures, while around ₹188 crore has been earmarked for surveys, tree replantation, and utility relocation.

Once completed, the Koyambedu–Avadi–Pattabiram line will feature 19 stations, including Padi Pudhu Nagar, Ambattur Estate, Ambattur OT, Thirumullaivoyal, Avadi Railway Station, Pattabiram, and Outer Ring Road. These areas are home to thousands of commuters who currently depend heavily on road and suburban rail services, often facing traffic congestion. The new metro line is expected to significantly reduce travel time and provide smoother connections from central Chennai to the rapidly growing western suburbs.

Chennai Metro Railway to boost access and ease daily commute

The Chennai Metro Railway expansion comes at a time when the city’s population is growing, and its transport systems are under heavy demand. Areas such as Avadi, Ambattur, and Pattabiram are not only residential hubs but also house several Central government institutions and defence establishments. Improved metro access will ease travel for employees, students, and residents who regularly commute between the city centre and these zones.

Residents have welcomed the move but are urging the State to expedite the submission of the CMP to the Centre, so that final approval can be granted without further delay. Commuters believe this project will not only cut travel time but also help reduce dependence on overcrowded buses and congested suburban trains. By offering an efficient and comfortable alternative, the metro extension will also support economic growth in the surrounding regions. Also Read: Spotify Launched New DJ Feature: Transform Your Playlists with Seamless Transitions

The corridor’s design as a fully elevated route ensures minimal disruption to existing road networks while providing ease of construction. With planned stations at busy junctions and residential clusters, it is expected to integrate well with other lines of the metro, giving passengers more options for seamless travel across the city.

Conclusion

The Chennai Metro Railway Koyambedu-Avadi-Pattabiram corridor is set to become a game-changer for the city’s transport network. While it awaits the Centre’s nod, the State’s approval for preparatory work is a positive step that moves the project closer to reality. Once completed, this new line will not only enhance daily commutes but also reshape connectivity for the western suburbs of Chennai.