Chennai MRTS Upgrade: ₹6,600 Crore Project to Transform 25-Km Rail Corridor

A major upgrade is planned for the Chennai MRTS (Mass Rapid Transit System) corridor between Chennai Beach and St Thomas Mount, with the project estimated to cost around ₹6,600 crore. The proposed development is expected to improve passenger facilities and modernise the railway infrastructure along the approximately 25-km corridor.

Chennai MRTS to Come Under Metro Rail Management

The Tamil Nadu government is planning to initiate the process of transferring the management of the MRTS to Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) within three months.

A government order is expected to be issued first, following which the State government and Southern Railway are expected to enter into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for the transfer and management arrangements.

A second government order is expected to provide CMRL with directions to take over the management of the MRTS stations and undertake infrastructure and passenger-facility improvements.

21 Railway Stations to Be Upgraded

The Chennai Beach–St Thomas Mount MRTS corridor covers around 25 km and includes 21 railway stations. The proposed modernisation is expected to focus on improving station infrastructure, passenger amenities and the overall travel experience.

The project is being planned as part of efforts to integrate Chennai`s suburban rail and metro transportation network and provide better connectivity for commuters.

MRTS Modernisation Timeline

According to the information provided, the government plans to complete the key administrative procedures by the end of December 2026. This includes issuing the necessary government orders and completing the agreement between the Tamil Nadu government and Southern Railway.

Once the transfer process is completed, CMRL is expected to take up the station management and improvement works.

The proposed Chennai MRTS upgrade is expected to bring major changes to the Beach–St Thomas Mount corridor, with station improvements and better integration with Chennai`s wider public transport network.