Extended Traffic Disruptions in Chennai as Metro Rail Project Advances
Motorists in Chennai must brace for continued traffic inconveniences, including narrowed roads, blocked stretches, and slow-moving traffic, for at least one more year. This is due to the ongoing construction by Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL), which is targeting the completion of nearly 40 kilometers of elevated corridors under Phase 2 by March 2027.
Progress on Elevated Alignments and Operational Targets
Including the approximately 28 kilometers planned for commissioning this year, close to 90% of the 74-kilometer elevated alignment of the 116.1-kilometer Phase 2 network is set to become operational. If CMRL's construction plan remains on schedule, several major arterial roads could see barricades removed by next year, marking the completion of more than 50% of the overall Phase 2 project.
Key elevated stretches scheduled for completion include:
- The 39.44-kilometer section from Chennai Trade Centre to Sholinganallur on Corridor 5 (Madhavaram-Sholinganallur), which spans 44.6 kilometers.
- The Nehru Nagar-Siruseri stretch on the 45.4-kilometer Corridor 3 (Madhavaram–Sipcot) along Old Mahabalipuram Road (OMR).
Officials have stated that as viaduct construction is completed, barricades occupying the center of roads will be removed in phases. "Only the underground stretches will be left after that, and those are expected to be ready by 2028. We are also planning to open a small stretch between Powerhouse and Panagal Park on Corridor 4 by March 2027," a metro rail official explained.
Challenges and Specific Area Impacts
However, large sections in core city areas such as Mylapore, Villivakkam, and Nungambakkam are likely to remain blocked, contributing to ongoing traffic woes. Meanwhile, the Vadapalani-Poonamallee stretch is set to become the first operational segment of Phase 2, with an expected opening later this month. Additionally, the section from Koyambedu to Chennai Trade Centre is targeted for commissioning by June 2026.
Officials acknowledge challenges in the construction timeline. While work on the Nehru Nagar-Sholinganallur stretch is progressing rapidly, the Sholinganallur-Siruseri section is experiencing slower progress in some pockets. "We handed over land for entry and exit points along the entire OMR stretch two months ago. We should be able to finish on time," the official added, expressing optimism despite the hurdles.
This extended period of disruption underscores the scale of the metro expansion, which aims to enhance public transportation in Chennai but requires patience from commuters as infrastructure develops.
