CMRL to Open 15.8 km Chennai Metro Phase II in February

08 Jan 2026 CW Team

Chennai Metro Rail (CMRL) has revised its rollout strategy for Phase II of the Chennai Metro, deciding to commission the entire 15.8-km stretch between Poonamallee Bypass and Vadapalani directly in February. The move marks a shift from the earlier plan of launching services on a shorter section first and extending them in stages.

Initially, CMRL had proposed to start operations on the Poonamallee Bypass–Porur Junction stretch by the end of January, with services extended to Vadapalani in February. However, officials said the revised approach would allow commuters to benefit from better connectivity from the outset, particularly through linkage with the existing Phase I network at Vadapalani.

Preparatory work for the launch has now entered a critical phase. The first round of inspections by the Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety (CMRS), which focused on rolling stock and train systems, has already been completed. The final CMRS inspection, covering station facilities, passenger amenities, and overall operational readiness, is expected to be conducted in the last week of January.

On the infrastructure side, the most significant pending task is the laying of nearly 2 km of track between Porur Junction and Vadapalani, comprising around 1 km each on the up and down lines. CMRL is targeting completion of the down line by January 9 to enable the commencement of trial runs on the section.

To meet the tight timeline, CMRL has ramped up on-ground execution by deploying around 600 workers to expedite track-laying activities. Officials said the coming days will be crucial in determining whether trial operations can begin as scheduled and whether the corridor can be readied in time for the planned February commissioning of Phase II services.

News source: Metro Rail News

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