Chennai Metro Phase-2: Construction Of Underground Stations Begins On Corridor-3

The ambitious Chennai Metro Rail's phase-2 project has marked a significant milestone with the initiation of construction activities for underground stations along Corridor-3, connecting Madhavaram to SIPCOT via Thirumayilai.

The underground stations at key locations, including Otteri, Pattalam, and Perambur, are now underway.

The phase-2 project encompasses three key corridors: Madhavaram to SIPCOT via Thirumayilai (Corridor-3), Light House to Poonamallee via T Nagar (Corridor-4) and Madhavaram to Sholinganallur via Medavakkam (Corridor -5).

Corridor-3, spanning a total length of 45.4 km, stands out as the longest corridor in the phase-2 project. It strategically connects areas from the northern to southern parts of Chennai, traversing densely populated and bustling locations such as Madhavaram, Purasawalkam, Perambur, Royapettah, Thirumayilai, Mandaiveli, Adyar, Taramani, Perungudi, Thoraipakkam, and Siruseri.

The construction kick-off in Corridor-3 holds particular significance, considering the earlier delays in the Madhavaram-Taramani stretch due to tender cancellations and re-flotations. This setback resulted in a delay of over a year.

However, recent developments indicate that tunnel work in the affected stretch is now making substantial progress, with concurrent commencement of station construction activities.

Chennai Metro Rail Limited officials emphasise the challenges associated with constructing underground stations, citing increased complexity and time consumption compared to elevated stations.

The process, which involves building the diaphragm wall (station box structure) initially, can take nearly two years to complete.

Officials highlight meticulous monitoring of vibration levels in densely populated areas to prevent any adverse impact on neighbouring structures during tunnel and station construction, reports The Hindu.

In a unique approach, the Pattalam station, one of the locations under Corridor-3, is designed as a stacked station. The concourse will be situated on the first level, the upper track line on the second level, and the downward track line on the third level.

The ongoing progress in the underground station construction marks a crucial step forward in the phase-2 project, showcasing the commitment to enhancing Chennai's metro infrastructure for improved connectivity and reduced congestion.