Chennai Suburban Rail Network to Get Major Boost: Railway Board Approves ₹1,270 Crore for New Tracks
In a significant move to ease congestion and improve suburban rail services, the Railway Board has approved the construction of three new railway track projects in Chennai and its suburban areas at a total cost of ₹1,270 crore.
The projects aim to increase the frequency of electric trains and reduce overcrowding, especially during peak office hours, when commuters face severe congestion.
Approved New Railway Track Projects
Tambaram – Chengalpattu:
Construction of a fourth railway line over a distance of 30 km, at a cost of ₹713 crore.
Athipattu - Gummidipoondi section:
Laying of third and fourth lines across 22.52 km, costing ₹375 crore.
Ambattur - Villivakkam section:
Addition of fifth and sixth railway lines over 6.4 km, at an estimated cost of ₹182 crore.
These projects fall under the Chennai division of Southern Railway.
Current Suburban Rail Scenario
- Chennai suburban rail operates around 550 electric train services daily on routes including Tambaram, Chengalpattu, Avadi, Tiruvallur, Arakkonam, Gummidipoondi, and Velachery.
- More than 9 lakh passengers depend on these services every day.
However, during peak hours (8:30 AM – 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM), trains especially on Chengalpattu, Arakkonam, and Gummidipoondi routes remain heavily overcrowded.
Late-night services after 8:30 PM are also limited, causing inconvenience to commuters.
Long-Term Benefits
Railway officials stated that while additional trains can be introduced quickly, track expansion is essential for sustained capacity growth. Once completed:
- Electric and express train operations are expected to double
- Delays will reduce and punctuality will improve
- Passenger comfort during peak hours will significantly increase
Additionally, the Railway Board has approved detailed project reports for:
Arakkonam – Chengalpattu double line (68 km)
Arakkonam – Renigunta (76 km) third & fourth lines
Gummidipoondi – Gudur (89.96 km) third & fourth lines
Work will begin in phases, including land acquisition and track alignment preparation, as funds are allocated. Completion of the fourth terminal at Perambur will further enable more long-distance and inter-state train services from Chennai.
