Chennai Metro makes a big change in Phase II plan

In a big change in plan, Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has determined to begin operations on the elevated hall from Poonamallee to Power House (Kodambakkam) in Phase II that can traverse by way of the densely populated areas of Porur, Alappakkam, Valasaravakkam and Saligramam, which now lack correct mass public transit.

This 12-km stretch is more likely to be the primary one to get operational in the subsequent 5 years. This is a vital change because the CMRL had earlier determined to begin providers between Madhavaram and Sholinganallur and Madhavaram and CMBT, masking almost 52 km. This was known as the precedence hall.

The Poonamallee-Power House stretch is a portion of one of many three corridors of the 118.9-km part II mission — Light House to Poonamallee. The different corridors are Madhavaram to Sholinganallur and Madhavaram to SIPCOT.

This stretch is absolutely elevated, and stations will come up at Power House, Saligramam, Avichi School, Alwarthirunagar, Valasaravakkam, Karambakkam, Alapakkam Junction, Porur Junction, Chennai Bypass Crossing, Ramachandra Hospital, Iyyapanthangal Bus Depot, Kattupakkam, Kumananchavadi, Karayanchavadi, Mullai Thottam, Poonamallee Bus Terminus and Poonamallee Bypass.

According to CMRL officers, the interval of development for the elevated stretch is sort of 36 months. Two tenders have been floated, splitting the development work — one from Porur to Poonamallee and the opposite from Porur to Power House — and three bidders have been short-listed for these two stretches.

“It is far more easier to finish the construction of an elevated stretch, and hence it may be put into operation first. It doesn’t mean the work on the priority corridor will be delayed. We have floated, and are processing tenders for the priority corridor as well,” an official stated.

“Since a majority of the priority corridor is underground, it will take a little more time to become operational. We want to finish the construction of the whole project in six years,” the official stated.

The contracts for the stretch will likely be awarded early subsequent yr. Though the development from Poonamallee to Power House could also be over in three years, time will likely be wanted for set up of the methods required for inspection, officers stated.

“…since the detailed design component is ready, it is possible to finish the construction in three years without delay, provided the contractor adheres to deadlines. Also, the CMRL will ensure that the land for construction is handed over and traffic permissions are given on time,” one other official stated, including that land acquisition was almost full for the stretch.