CHENNAI: Alandur is poised to emerge as a vibrant new hub for shopping and IT offices, with Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) unveiling ambitious plans for a seven-storey commercial plaza located strategically behind the metro station. This transformative project, spread across an impressive 3.75 lakh square feet, is designed to be directly integrated with the upcoming Phase-2 metro station through a dedicated link bridge, ensuring seamless pedestrian access for daily commuters and visitors alike.
Modern Infrastructure and Design Features
The proposed building will incorporate two basement levels dedicated to parking facilities for both two-wheelers and cars, addressing urban mobility needs. CMRL has recently floated a tender to appoint a consultant tasked with preparing a detailed design for this development. The structure is envisioned to house retail spaces on the lower floors, while the upper levels will be allocated for office spaces catering specifically to IT and IT-enabled services, creating a dynamic mixed-use environment.
Architectural and Urban Planning Highlights
Officials have indicated that the plaza may feature a contemporary façade, an elegant atrium, and open green spaces on the upper floors, providing a refreshing environment for office-goers. This initiative is part of CMRL's broader strategy to monetize land under its control, generate non-fare revenue, and significantly increase footfall at its stations. An official elaborated, "We are leveraging the air rights of lands under CMRL and other government agencies to create additional income streams. Simultaneously, Chennai's growing need for public spaces is evident from the weekend crowds at popular city spots. These developments will be modern, well-connected to metro stations, and enhance urban livability."
Context and Broader Metro Development Plans
CMRL has already undertaken similar efforts, such as developing Urban Square beneath the Kathipara grade separator, aimed at boosting footfall at the Phase-1 Alandur station. This station serves as a crucial interchange for Corridor 1 (from Wimco Nagar to Airport) and Corridor 2 (from Central Metro to St Thomas Mount). Looking ahead, under Phase-2, metro rail authorities plan extensive property development spanning nearly 30 lakh square feet across multiple locations including Mandaveli, Thirumangalam, Perungudi, Karapakkam, Thoraipakkam, Sholinganallur, Madhavaram High Road, Perambur Barracks Road, Chetpet, Purasawalkam, Nungambakkam, Adyar Depot, and Thirumayilai.
Recent Contract Awards and Financial Commitments
In December, CMRL awarded contracts worth ₹435.88 crore for commercial projects at Sholinganallur, Thoraipakkam, and Mandaveli. Notably, in Mandaveli alone, a ₹167.08-crore contract was secured to develop commercial and office space at the bus depot near the upcoming underground station, underscoring the scale of investment in metro-linked infrastructure.
Challenges and Future Prospects
However, it's important to note that similar attempts during Phase-1 faced limited interest primarily due to low footfalls. Reflecting on this, R Ramanathan, former CMRL director, emphasized, "Property development is crucial for metro systems to sustain their operations. With Phase-2 connecting more neighbourhoods across Chennai, we anticipate a significant rise in ridership and commercial interest, making projects like the Alandur plaza more viable and impactful." This forward-looking approach aims to not only enhance urban connectivity but also foster economic growth by creating integrated commercial hubs that leverage metro accessibility.
