Modi to Open First Phase‑2 Metro Stretch in Chennai on Oct 11

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the first operational stretch of Chennai Metro Phase 2 on October 11. The stretch runs between Poonamallee Bypass and Vadapalani and covers 14.64 km. It includes 17 stations, but only 11 will open to the public at launch; trains will skip six stations on the double‑deck section. The opening comes after the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety gave conditional approval in February and final authorisation was granted in May, allowing relaxed train speed and frequency. The trains are built for Unattended Train Operation, but they will start in Automatic Train Operation mode with two drivers on board to supervise. Fifteen trains will run at ten‑minute intervals. Fares will be capped at Rs 40 for travel between Vadapalani and Poonamallee Bypass and Rs 50 for journeys from Poonamallee Bypass to the airport, Egmore or Chennai Central. Chief Minister M.K. Stalin likened the line’s opening to a mother watching her child’s first steps. Chennai Metro Rail Limited aims to switch to full Unattended Train Operation by mid‑2027 after completing 120 test scenarios and receiving safety certification.

Context

The Phase 2 extension expands Chennai’s rapid‑transit network, linking western suburbs to key city hubs and easing road traffic. The gradual rollout of stations and automation is typical for large metro projects in India.