Chennai Metro Rail is set to begin construction of a multi-storey building at the Arumbakkam Metro Rail station premises.

Across its 54-km Phase I and its extension networks, as well as the upcoming Phase II project, Chennai Metro Rail has prioritised the development of high-rise buildings near stations where land permits. The objective is to create office and retail spaces that encourage increased Metro usage, thereby generating additional revenue.

The new structure, located behind the Arumbakkam Metro station near the parking area, will include a basement, a stilt floor featuring a four-tier mechanical car parking system, and seven upper floors.

Officials from Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) confirmed the building will cover 1,660.34 square metres of land. Situated on 100 Feet Road within a mixed residential neighbourhood, the Arumbakkam station’s new development will combine commercial and office spaces. Four floors will be dedicated to commercial use, including retail and food outlets, while the remaining three floors will serve as office spaces, an official stated.

Bids have been invited for the project, and if a contractor is selected within approximately three months, construction is expected to take nearly two years to complete.

While CMRL has previously developed office buildings at Ekkatuthangal and will soon build a similar facility at Saidapet, the new Arumbakkam complex aims to further boost non-farebox revenue by attracting commercial tenants.

Rajaram, a professional and regular Chennai Metro user, welcomed the move, saying, “Having office spaces near stations is excellent since many people want to avoid road congestion during their commute. Including food outlets is an added benefit, as travellers often like to grab a bite before or after their journey.”