Chennai Metro Phase 2 Opening Delayed as Six Stations on Poonamallee–Vadapalani Corridor Await Completion

The much-awaited inauguration of Chennai Metro Rail’s operationally ready Poonamallee Bypass–Vadapalani corridor has been pushed back once again, extending the wait for thousands of commuters across western Chennai.

The 14.6-kilometre stretch under Chennai Metro Phase 2 has already secured mandatory safety clearances from the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety. However, the corridor is still awaiting an inauguration date from the Central Government, while construction work continues at six stations that are yet to be completed.

According to Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) officials, the pending stations include Saligramam, Avichi School, Alwarthirunagar, Valasaravakkam, Karambakkam and Alapakkam Junction. These stations are now expected to be ready only by the end of September, with passenger services likely to begin after additional inspections during October or November.

The corridor was initially expected to open in phases, allowing trains to operate between Poonamallee Bypass and Vadapalani while bypassing unfinished stations. However, officials later decided to wait for further progress before launching commercial operations.

One of the biggest challenges remains the completion of four double-decker metro stations, where roofing work is still pending. Construction teams also face operational constraints once train services begin, as worker movement near active tracks and platforms will be restricted. In addition, overhead electrical lines may require temporary power shutdowns to complete roofing installations safely.

Although key infrastructure such as signalling systems, ticketing areas, electrical substations, telecommunications rooms and UPS facilities has already been completed, several finishing works are still underway. These include station roofing, cladding, entry and exit structures, granite flooring and public amenities.

The four double-decker stations will become important interchange hubs connecting Corridor 4 between Lighthouse and Poonamallee Bypass with Corridor 5 linking Madhavaram and Sholinganallur. Once operational, the corridor is expected to significantly improve connectivity across Chennai’s growing metro network and reduce congestion on Arcot Road, one of the city’s busiest traffic corridors.

For daily commuters travelling between Porur, Vadapalani and surrounding neighbourhoods, the continued delay means relying on heavily congested roads despite metro infrastructure being largely ready. Industry observers believe the corridor’s opening will play a key role in strengthening Chennai’s urban mobility and supporting future residential and commercial growth along the route.