In a significant move to enhance commuter experience and generate additional income, Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) is set to transform stations along its upcoming Phase-2 network into vibrant hubs for shopping, dining, and convenient parking. This initiative comes as the first stretch of the massive second phase is poised to open to the public later this month.
Boosting Revenue and Modernizing Transit Hubs
The state-run metro operator has initiated steps to develop approximately 1.9 lakh square feet of space inside and around several stations on Corridor 4, which runs from Lighthouse to Poonamallee Bypass. A key strategy involves utilizing air rights—the development of space above land parcels—to construct new facilities. "We are utilizing air rights to generate additional revenue. These structures will also give the city a touch of modernity," a metro rail official stated.
The plan aims to address a dual objective: increasing non-fare revenue for the metro system and attracting more passengers by offering integrated amenities. "A city of 1.2 crore people needs more public spaces," the official added, highlighting the demand visible in crowded parks and malls. "Our developments will have the advantage of being directly connected to public transport."
Detailed Plans for Key Stations
CMRL has floated a consultancy tender to prepare detailed designs for station-linked property development at specific locations. The plans include a diverse mix of commercial and parking infrastructure:
- Near the Boat Club underground station, an 8,000 sqft standalone commercial space with a basement, ground, and three floors is planned.
- At Kutchery Road underground station, about 22,000 sqft will be developed, including space above entry-exit structures.
- For elevated stations, a multi-level car parking facility across 25,000 sqft is planned at Alapakkam, with access via a foot overbridge.
- Similar parking and commercial-linked developments are envisaged near Kattupakkam and Iyyappanthangal stations.
Other stations slated for such development include Nandanam, Bharathidasan Road, and Alwarpet. Furthermore, around 54,000 sqft of area below the points where elevated Corridor 4 and Corridor 5 separate will be landscaped into public spaces.
Learning from Phase-1, Betting on Phase-2 Growth
This push for commercial development follows a less successful attempt during Phase-1, where large commercial spaces inside stations saw fewer takers. Experts attributed this primarily to lower-than-expected footfall. Currently, daily ridership averages around three lakh passengers, significantly below the initial estimate of 7.75 lakh.
However, officials are optimistic that Phase-2 will change the equation. The imminent opening of the 9.1 km line from Porur to Poonamallee Bypass on Corridor-4 marks the beginning of the 118.1 km Phase-2 project. "As Phase-2 connects more parts of the city, footfall will rise and property development will become more viable," said R Ramanathan, former CMRL director. "The space in Phase-1 stations too will attract more brands as patronage will increase."
All new developments will be carefully integrated with station access, parking, and pedestrian pathways, aiming to create seamless, multi-purpose transit hubs that cater to the evolving needs of Chennai's commuters and contribute to the city's urban landscape.
