CMRL Unveils ₹482-Cr Transit Hub Plan for Vadapalani, Mandaveli to Follow

Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has announced plans to develop major multi-modal transit hubs in Vadapalani and Mandaveli, combining public transport access with high-rise commercial and office spaces.

The larger of the two projects, at Vadapalani, is a ₹481.93 crore venture set to come up on the existing metro depot site along Arcot Road. Spanning over 1.06 lakh sq.m, the 12-storey hub will integrate metro and bus facilities and include two basement levels for parking accommodating 1,475 two-wheelers and 214 four-wheelers.

A modern bus terminus is planned on the ground floor with five boarding bays, two alighting bays, and multiple retail outlets. Office spaces will occupy the first to 10th floors, while the top two floors are earmarked for the animation, visual effects, gaming, comics, and extended reality (AVGC) industries. A food court and restaurant zone are also planned on the fifth floor.

Residents see the project as a major upgrade. “This will transform Vadapalani into a crucial mobility and commercial hub. But CMRL must ensure Arcot Road doesn’t face further congestion,” said L. Srikanth, a resident.

In Mandaveli, CMRL will develop a smaller yet significant transit hub atop the existing Metro station. Two seven-storey buildings are planned one to serve as a shopping mall and the other as office space. The ground floor will feature a bus terminal, aiming to solve last-mile connectivity issues in the area.

“This is a much-needed upgrade,” said Baskar S. of Mandaveli. “With improved transit and last-mile links, commuting to areas like Adyar and the IT corridor will become far more efficient.”

CMRL officials confirmed that tenders for both projects have been floated, and contracts are likely to be awarded in the next three to four months. The Vadapalani hub is expected to take three years to complete, while the Mandaveli facility will be ready in two years.