Vadapalani Metro Station: One Entry Gate Still Under Construction Ahead of Phase II Inauguration

The first 14.64-km stretch of Chennai Metro Phase II from Poonamallee Bypass to Vadapalani is set to be inaugurated on October 11, but one entry/exit structure at Vadapalani station will not be ready.

Vadapalani Station to Connect Phase I and Phase II

Vadapalani will play an important role as an interchange station for passengers travelling between the Phase I and Phase II networks. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to inaugurate the Poonamallee Bypass–Vadapalani stretch on Sunday.

Unlike Phase I stations, which generally have four entry and exit structures, Phase II stations will have two. At Vadapalani, Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has completed an entry point near the police station on Arcot Road.

A skywalk connecting the Phase I and Phase II stations has also been constructed across the road. However, the entry structure next to the Phase I station, along with the exit towards 100 Feet Road, remains under construction.

Passengers May Need to Use the Skywalk

The entry structure near the Vadapalani Metro skywalk will not be ready for the inauguration. As a result, passengers may have to use the skywalk to reach the Phase I station for exit, where the AFC gates are located.

CMRL had received conditional approval from the Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety (CMRS) in February and secured final authorisation in May, with relaxations related to train speed and frequency.

Three-Level Elevated Station

Vadapalani is the only elevated Phase II station with three levels. The first level is planned for commercial development, while the second will accommodate ticketing facilities and the third will serve as the platform level.

The station will improve connectivity for passengers from Porur and Poonamallee to areas including Anna Nagar, Shenoy Nagar, Thiruvottiyur and Kilpauk. Passengers can also connect to major transport hubs such as Chennai Central and Chennai Airport by changing trains at Vadapalani.