Chennai Metro Rail’s tunnel boring machine (TBM) Flamingo, currently drilling from Light House, will reach Thirumayilai MRTS station only after receiving approval from the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS), ensuring the safety of nearby structures.

The Phase II project of Chennai Metro Rail includes three corridors: Madhavaram–SIPCOT (Corridor 3), Light House–Poonamallee (Corridor 4), and Madhavaram–Sholinganallur (Corridor 5). Several stations along these corridors intersect with suburban railway lines, MRTS stations, and Phase I metro lines. Thirumayilai is a key location where the Phase II station is being integrated with the MRTS station.

According to Chennai Metro Rail (CMRL) officials, CRS approval is required because the TBM will pass in close proximity—within 10 metres—of the pile structures of the Thirumayilai MRTS station. Flamingo has to cover a 1.96 km stretch from Light House to Thirumayilai and is currently 94 metres away from the station, awaiting the breakthrough.

Before the approval is sought, IIT Madras will conduct simulations to evaluate potential soil settlement and structural impact near the MRTS piles. The study will determine whether the settlement remains within permissible limits and will also recommend a safe drilling speed for Flamingo.

“Safety is our priority. Once the simulations confirm stability, the TBM can safely complete the tunnel breakthrough at Thirumayilai,” an official said.

This careful planning ensures the Phase II corridor integrates seamlessly with the MRTS network, paving the way for improved connectivity across Chennai.

News source: The Hindu