The long-awaited extension of Chennai’s Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS) between Velachery and St Thomas Mount is set to open for passenger services on March 10, marking a major milestone for the city’s public transport network. Railway authorities recently completed the final statutory safety inspection and trial runs on the nearly 4.5–5 km elevated corridor, clearing the way for operations after years of delays.
The inspection was conducted by the Chief Commissioner of Railway Safety (CCRS), who examined critical aspects of the line including track alignment, bridge structures, signalling systems, electrification, and passenger facilities. Officials also carried out high-speed trial runs and motor trolley checks to ensure the infrastructure meets operational safety standards before opening to the public.
The extension includes new stations at Puzhuthivakkam and Adambakkam, along with a major interchange facility at St Thomas Mount, where passengers can connect with the Chennai Metro Rail and suburban railway services. Once operational, the corridor will allow commuters to travel directly from Chennai Beach to St Thomas Mount without changing trains.
The project, first proposed nearly two decades ago, is expected to significantly improve connectivity in south Chennai and reduce travel time for thousands of daily commuters. Transport officials say the new link will strengthen integration between different rail networks and help ease congestion on the city’s busy road corridors.News as Reported.
