Chennai Metro Rail Plans To Build Skywalks Near Phase-2 Metro Stations

Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) is planning to build skywalks that will offer commuters quick access to phase-2 stations and also function as elevated footpaths.

Elevated walkways, which cross underneath the elevated corridors linking both sides of the highway, can be covered to offer shade for metro rail commuters and pedestrians, just like the ones in Hongkong and Bangkok.

CMRL plans to construct skywalks under elevated corridors crossing over busy areas such as the Old Mahabalipuram Road (OMR), busy junctions, and busy stations.

The expansion of Metro Phase II is planned with a network length of 118.9 km with 128 stations. It consists of three corridors, namely Corridor -3 - From Madhavaram to SIPCOT (45.8 km), Corridor - 4 - From Lighthouse to Poonamalle Bypass (26.1 km), Corridor - 5 - From Madhavaram at Sholinganallur (47 km).

The estimated cost of the project is‌‌ Rs 63,246 crore. Construction is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.

Skywalks can include both escalators and elevators on either side of the highway to take commuters to the doorways and concourse stages of the metro stations that will be built on the highway's centre.

According to a metro rail official, “This will be a non-paid service area of the station, which means people do not need to buy tickets,”.

A skywalk can also serve as a footpath at some locations, where it runs parallel to the corridors.

As per the Times Of India report, “we want to create a shaded walkway for passengers under the viaducts of elevated corridors in phase-2. We have planned to raise the height of the pillars of the elevated lines, so we can provide the facility in the future wherever possible,” metro rail official stated.