In a significant move to boost rail connectivity and ease congestion, the Southern Railway zone has launched a massive infrastructure upgrade focused on three key cities: Chennai, Coimbatore, and Ernakulam (Kochi). This initiative is part of Indian Railways' broader national plan to double originating train capacity in 48 major cities by the year 2030, with progressive benefits expected over the next five years.
Chennai's Multi-Pronged Capacity Enhancement
The bustling Chennai rail network, which serves approximately 12.4 lakh passengers daily across stations like Dr MGR Chennai Central, Egmore, and Tambaram, is set for a transformative upgrade. The strategy involves a combination of station redevelopment, creation of new terminals, and critical multi-tracking projects to segregate suburban and long-distance traffic.
A major highlight is the redevelopment of Chennai Egmore into a world-class hub under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS). The revamped station will feature airport-like passenger separation, two new terminal buildings, 44 lifts, 31 escalators, and a massive 14,000 sq.m. departure concourse. It aims for a GRIHA 4-star green rating.
Furthermore, a new terminal at Perambur is on the cards to decongest Chennai Central and Egmore. Its Detailed Project Report (DPR), proposing seven platforms at an estimated cost of Rs 342 crore, was submitted to the Railway Board in April 2025.
Key Chennai Rail Projects
Southern Railway's plan for the capital involves 271.7 kilometers of projects across various phases:
- Commissioned: The Chennai Beach – Chennai Egmore 4th Line (4.30 km) is already enhancing frequency for daily commuters.
- Newly Sanctioned: Three projects covering 59.44 km, including the Tambaram – Chengalpattu 4th Line (30.02 km).
- DPRs Cleared: Five major projects spanning 207.96 km, such as the Gummidipundi – Gudur 3rd & 4th Line (89.96 km) and the Arakkonam – Renigunta 3rd & 4th Line (76 km).
Coimbatore Gets a Second Major Terminal
To alleviate pressure on the busy Coimbatore Junction, Podanur Junction is being developed as the city's second terminal with an investment of Rs 100 crore. The project includes new terminal facilities, stabling lines, and yard re-organisation. Once complete, it will originate and terminate select train services.
Simultaneously, station redevelopment is underway. Coimbatore North station is being upgraded under ABSS for Rs 11.5 crore with new entry points and better amenities. A ambitious proposal for the PPP-mode redevelopment of Coimbatore Junction itself, worth Rs 692.65 crore, has been submitted to the Railway Board.
Ernakulam's Phased Modernisation
Kochi's rail hub is also undergoing a substantial makeover. The redevelopment of Ernakulam Town station is progressing in two phases at a total cost of Rs 150.28 crore. Phase 1, currently underway, has seen the completion of the West Terminal Building's structure and a Multi-level Car Parking facility for 200 cars. Commissioning of this phase is targeted for May 2026.
Works at Ernakulam Junction have been retendered and will begin shortly, while redevelopment at Tripunithura station is in its final stages. These upgrades are designed to handle present traffic and meet future mobility demands for decades.
The Bigger Picture: Doubling National Capacity
These city-specific projects align with the Ministry of Railways' blueprint to double originating capacity. The plan involves augmenting existing terminals with more platforms and stabling lines, creating new terminals, building mega coaching complexes for maintenance, and increasing sectional capacity through signalling upgrades and multi-tracking.
For passengers across South India, this comprehensive expansion promises not just more trains, but also vastly improved travel experiences through modernised stations, reduced congestion, and better operational punctuality. The Southern Railway's focused investment in Chennai, Coimbatore, and Ernakulam marks a crucial step in building a more robust and efficient rail network for the region's growing needs.
