Rs 3.65 Billion Rail Upgrade Planned Near Chennai

10 Jul 2025 CW Team

The Railway Board is evaluating a Rs 3.65 billion proposal from Southern Railway to construct third and fourth lines along the 22.52 km stretch between Attipattu and Gummidipoondi. This segment forms part of the high-traffic Delhi–Chennai route and is a critical connector in both the Chennai–Visakhapatnam and Chennai–Bengaluru industrial corridors.

Planned under the national programme for multi-tracking and bypass routes, the project aims to alleviate congestion and support increasing freight demand. It has secured interdepartmental clearances and now awaits formal approval from the Ministry of Railways.

Once sanctioned, the additional lines are projected to carry 8.71 million tonnes of freight annually and significantly reduce train detention times. The corridor is currently operating at full capacity and is expected to surpass 107 per cent utilisation by 2027–28, underscoring the urgency of expansion.

Southern Railway has completed the final location survey, and land acquisition is not expected to pose challenges. Local communities and stakeholders have consistently supported the project, recognising its potential to boost regional connectivity and economic growth.

The railway line serves key industrial assets, including the Ennore and Kamarajar ports, SIPCOT industrial estate, and several thermal power plants.

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