Preserving Heritage: Madurai Metro Project To Adhere To ASI Norms For Implementation

The inspection of the proposed metro stations in Madurai was conducted by Ramesh Chand Meena, additional chief secretary of the planning, development, and special initiatives department.

He stated that the Madurai metro rail project will be implemented in compliance with the rules and recommendations of the Hindu Religious (HR) and Charitable Endowments (CE) departments and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

The Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has announced that the track alignment for the Madurai metro rail has been carefully planned.

The underground tracks and station near the Meenakshi Amman Temple will be constructed 115 metre away from the outer walls of the temple. Similarly, the elevated track near Arulmigu Subramaniya Swami Temple in Thiruparankundram will be built 160 metre from the outer wall of the temple.

In accordance with the ASI rules and HR and CE recommendations, any new infrastructure must be located at least 100 metre away from protected monuments or structures.

After conducting an inspection of the proposed locations for the 27 stations, the chief secretary proceeded to review the survey reports prepared by CMRL.

These reports covered various aspects such as the required redevelopment work in the city, the integrated traffic management system, and the proposed depot site at Thoppur.

The final detailed project report (DPR) for the Madurai Metro reveals plans for a total of 27 metro stations to be constructed along a 32 km stretch between Thirumangalam and Othakadai.

CMRL officials have announced that the DPRs for both Madurai and Coimbatore will be submitted to the state government on 15 July.

In a discussion with the chief secretary, CMRL MD M A Siddique, Madurai Metro project director T Archunan, and representatives from the ASI, HR, and CE departments were present to provide their insights and expertise, according to Economic Times.