Chennai Airport to Kilambakkam Metro Rail Project Gets Central Approval; Work to Begin Soon
The proposed Chennai Metro Rail project connecting Chennai Airport and Kilambakkam Bus Terminus has received approval from the Union Cabinet, according to Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL). The project is expected to be implemented at an estimated cost of ₹9,000 crore.
CMRL Project Director T. Archunan said the metro connectivity project will significantly improve public transport access between the airport and the newly developed Kilambakkam bus terminus.
Chennai Airport – Kilambakkam Metro Corridor Details
The proposed metro rail corridor will cover a distance of approximately 15 kilometres between Chennai Airport and Kilambakkam. As part of the project, 12 metro railway stations are planned along the route.
The Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the corridor was prepared and submitted to the Central Government in February this year. The Union Government has reportedly given priority to the project and initiated further approval procedures.
₹9,000 Crore Metro Project to Improve Chennai Connectivity
Officials said the new metro line is expected to ease traffic congestion and provide faster connectivity for passengers travelling to and from the Kilambakkam Kalaignar Centenary Bus Terminus, one of Tamil Nadu’s largest bus terminals.
The project will benefit daily commuters, long-distance bus passengers, airport travellers, and suburban residents in southern Chennai.
Preparatory Work Already Underway
As part of the preliminary work for the metro project, Chennai Metro Rail officials are currently holding discussions with senior officials from various departments, including:
- Chennai Airport authorities
- National Highways Department
- Water Supply Board officials
- Other infrastructure agencies
These consultations are being conducted to finalise metro alignment, station locations, and infrastructure requirements.
Land Survey Work Completed
CMRL officials stated that land demarcation and survey work required for the project has already been completed. Once final approval from the Central Government is formally issued, the next phase of construction and implementation work is expected to begin.
The Chennai Airport to Kilambakkam Metro Rail project is seen as a major infrastructure development that will strengthen Chennai’s urban transport network and improve connectivity in the rapidly growing southern suburbs.
