Chennai Metro to Introduce Semi-Naming for 9 Stations, Invites Bids
To boost its non-fare revenue, Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has initiated a new tender inviting bids for semi-naming rights of nine Metro stations along the Phase I Extension of Corridor 1. Alongside naming rights, CMRL is also auctioning licences for exclusive advertising spaces inside and outside these stations.
The stations identified for semi-naming include:
- New Washermenpet
- Thiyagaraya College
- Tondiarpet
- Tollgate
- Wimco Nagar
- Wimco Nagar Depot
- Tiruvottiyur
- Tiruvottiyur Theradi
- Kaladipet
Under the scheme, businesses can add their brand name as a suffix or prefix to the original station name. A CMRL official noted that unlike Phase I, companies will now be allowed to advertise their brand inside and outside the stations, as well as on the piers of Corridor 1, providing wider visibility and increased revenue opportunities.
Officials emphasized that non-fare revenue is crucial for sustainable Metro operations and future collaborations. Importantly, semi-naming will not affect station announcements made to commuters.
Since 2019, CMRL has already semi-named 26 out of 40 stations in Phase I. According to official records, this initiative has helped generate an average of ₹16 crore per year in non-fare revenue up to July 2023.
CMRL expects the new tender to further strengthen its revenue model while offering branding opportunities for businesses across Chennai.
