Chennai Metro Rail to Begin Tunnelling at Kolathur After Delay

Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) is set to commence tunnelling work between Kolathur and Villivakkam within two weeks as part of the ongoing Phase II project.

Project Overview:

- Phase II Cost: ₹63,246 crore
- Corridors:
- Corridor 3: Madhavaram – SIPCOT
- Corridor 4: Light House – Poonamallee
- Corridor 5: Madhavaram – Sholinganallur

While tunnelling has progressed swiftly in Corridors 3 and 4, Corridor 5 faced a year-long delay in its only underground stretch between Kolathur and Villivakkam.

Tunnelling Plan:

- TBM "Kurinji" has been lowered at Kolathur.
- Initial tunnelling will cover 500m from Kolathur Shaft to Kolathur Metro Station.
- The next phase will extend towards Srinivasa Nagar within four months.
- The 5 km underground stretch includes five stations:
- Kolathur Junction
- Srinivasa Nagar
- Villivakkam Metro
- Villivakkam Bus Terminus
- Villivakkam MTH Road

Once completed, this stretch will enhance connectivity for Kolathur and Villivakkam residents, making travel to Mylapore, Adyar, and OMR more convenient.