Chennai Metro Phase 2 Advances As First Trial Run On Mullaithottam–Poonamallee Stretch Begins

The Chennai Metro Rail’s long-awaited trial run on the 3.5 km stretch between Mullaithottam and Poonamallee is set to take place on Thursday evening (20 March), reported The New Indian Express.

According to Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) officials, this trial marks the first phase of testing on the Poonamallee–Porur elevated corridor, which is expected to be operational by the end of this year. 

Following successful trials on this segment, testing will extend towards Porur, bringing Chennai one step closer to a more connected and efficient public transport system.

The 9-km Poonamallee–Porur stretch, comprising 10 stations, is scheduled for inauguration by December 2025, as announced by Chief Minister M K Stalin. 

This section forms a part of Corridor 4, a 26.1-km route from Lighthouse to Poonamallee Bypass.

Chennai Metro’s Phase 2 expansion is an extensive project spanning 118.9 km with 128 stations across three corridors:

• Corridor 3: Madhavaram to SIPCOT (45.8 km)

• Corridor 4: Lighthouse to Poonamallee Bypass (26.1 km)

• Corridor 5: Madhavaram to Sholinganallur (47.0 km)

After the Poonamallee–Porur section becomes operational, the next target is the 8-km Porur–Kodambakkam Power House stretch, expected to open by June 2026.

 The entire Phase 2 project is set for completion by December 2027.

“This expansion will significantly enhance Chennai’s public transport network, making commuting more efficient and accessible for residents,” said a CMRL official.