Chennai Metro Phase 2: Safety Inspection Completed for Vadapalani–Poonamallee Stretch, Train Operations Likely Soon
The second phase of safety inspection for the Vadapalani–Poonamallee Bypass stretch of Chennai Metro Rail Limited was successfully completed on Wednesday, bringing the corridor closer to commercial operations.
The 14.64-kilometre elevated metro stretch between Vadapalani and Poonamallee Bypass Road is part of Chennai Metro Phase 2 expansion works. Track laying and station construction have been completed along this section, which falls under the proposed corridor connecting Marina Lighthouse to Poonamallee.
The Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety (CMRS), Madhu Choudhary from Bengaluru, led the inspection team. Initial safety trials were conducted on February 11 and 12, followed by the second phase of inspection starting February 24. During the trials, metro trains were operated at specified speeds to assess track stability, signalling systems, and overall operational safety.
Following the inspection, discussions were held between the Commissioner of Railway Safety and senior officials of Chennai Metro Rail Limited regarding final works and operational readiness.
Officials stated that once the mandatory safety certification is issued, metro train services on the Vadapalani–Poonamallee stretch are likely to commence within a couple of weeks.
The new corridor is expected to significantly improve connectivity in western Chennai and ease traffic congestion along the Poonamallee High Road corridor.
