Centre Rejects Coimbatore, Madurai Metro Rail Projects Again; Suggests BRTS

The Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) has reaffirmed its decision to reject the proposed Metro Rail projects in Coimbatore and Madurai, stating that the two cities currently do not justify the scale of investment required for Metro systems.

Instead, the ministry has suggested strengthening bus-based public transport, including Bus Rapid Transit Systems (BRTS), as a more affordable mobility solution for the two Tamil Nadu cities.

Coimbatore, Madurai Metro Proposals Rejected Again

The Union government`s observations were communicated to the Tamil Nadu government following the State`s renewed request for approval submitted in May.

One of the key concerns raised by MoHUA was whether the proposed Metro systems would deliver sufficient travel-time savings to justify the investment.

According to estimates prepared by Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL), Metro services could reduce travel time for an average 7.5-km peak-hour journey by around eight minutes.

However, the ministry reportedly observed that the estimate did not fully account for the time passengers would spend walking to Metro stations, waiting for trains and exiting stations before reaching their final destinations.

After considering these factors, the ministry concluded that the overall time savings could be limited.

Average Travel Distance Raises Concerns

MoHUA also observed that Metro Rail becomes considerably more attractive than road transport for journeys of around 15 km or more.

Average journeys in Coimbatore and Madurai are shorter than this distance, raising concerns over whether Metro Rail would offer sufficient advantages to commuters.

The ministry also highlighted the importance of feeder buses and last-mile connectivity. A strong supporting public transport network would be necessary to bring passengers to Metro stations and ensure adequate ridership.

BRTS Suggested as Alternative

While rejecting the current Metro proposals, the ministry clarified that it was not against introducing modern public transport systems in Coimbatore and Madurai.

It suggested that at-grade or elevated BRTS corridors could be considered if they provide efficient and affordable transportation.

The ministry also noted that population alone cannot determine whether a city requires a Metro network. Technical feasibility, ridership, financial viability, trip patterns and operational factors must also support such a large infrastructure investment.

With Census 2027 expected to provide updated population and demographic data, CMRL and the Tamil Nadu government could reassess the proposals using newer information and address the issues highlighted by the ministry.

For now, strengthening bus services and exploring BRTS could emerge as alternative options for improving public transpoportation in Coimbatore and Madurai.