Chennai Metro Plans 7-Storey Commercial Complex in Arumbakkam, 12 Lakh Sq Ft Business Centres

The Chennai Metro Rail Corporation is planning to develop large commercial complexes and business centres near key Chennai Metro stations as part of its efforts to increase non-fare revenue and create more commercial opportunities in the city.

The Metro Rail service has become an important part of daily commuting for people across Chennai. Along with expanding passenger services, the Chennai Metro Rail Corporation is now focusing on generating additional revenue by utilising its land assets and developing commercial spaces near metro stations.

7-Storey Commercial Complex Near Arumbakkam Metro

As part of this initiative, the Chennai Metro Rail authorities have planned a new 7-storey commercial complex near Arumbakkam Metro Rail Station.

Commercial complexes have already been developed or planned near metro stations such as Alandur, Saidapet and Ekkatuthangal. Arumbakkam is now set to join this list with a new commercial development.

The proposed commercial complex will be constructed on approximately 17,872 sq ft of land behind Arumbakkam Metro Station. The seven-storey building will have a total built-up area of around 34,206 sq ft.

The complex is expected to accommodate offices, commercial shops and restaurants, creating additional business opportunities for the surrounding area.

Four-Level Automated Car Parking Facility

To manage the additional traffic generated by the commercial complex, the project will include a four-level automated mechanical car parking facility in the basement and ground-floor areas.

The site is located alongside Jawaharlal Nehru Road on one side and the Cooum River on the other. Since the surrounding locality also has a large number of residential areas, the proposed commercial complex is expected to receive significant commercial interest.

Chennai Metro Phase 2 to Develop 12 Lakh Sq Ft of Commercial Space

The Chennai Metro Rail Corporation is primarily looking to utilise its land along metro corridors to generate additional revenue.

Under Chennai Metro Phase 2, the corporation plans to develop commercial centres covering approximately 12 lakh sq ft along Corridors 3, 4 and 5.

Construction work for these commercial developments is currently progressing rapidly in areas including Mandaveli, Thoraipakkam, Sholinganallur and Thirumangalam.

Similar commercial centres are also planned in Sembium, Perambur Barracks, Purasawalkam, Chetpet, Boat Club, Kacheri Road and Alwarpet.

Low Footfall at Some Existing Metro Commercial Complexes

Some commercial complexes located near the first-phase Chennai Metro stations did not receive the expected response due to relatively low footfall.

Commenting on the development, former Chennai Metro Rail Corporation director Ramanathan said that the Metro administration cannot depend solely on revenue from passenger ticket sales.

He said revenue generated through commercial complexes would be important for the Metro Rail system. According to him, once Chennai Metro Phase 2 becomes fully operational and connects more parts of the city, passenger numbers are expected to increase, which could also improve footfall and demand at the commercial centres.

Experts Stress Need for Better Parking and Traffic Management

Urban planning expert Kamalakannan said the opening of the new commercial complex could increase the number of people travelling to the area in private vehicles.

He stressed the importance of providing adequate parking facilities and separate access routes to ensure that vehicles can enter and exit the complex smoothly without adding to traffic congestion.

The Chennai Metro Rail Corporation’s commercial development initiative is expected to create useful commercial spaces for the public while also supporting the business and economic growth of Chennai.

The planned developments could also help the Metro Rail corporation strengthen its non-fare revenue, while making better use of land along Chennai’s expanding metro network.