Chennai Metro begins inspection of MRTS Stations to takeover the project

Chennai, India (Metro Rail Today): In a significant move toward improving urban transportation infrastructure, Chennai Metro Rail is set to take over the Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS). While the formal agreement between the State government and Southern Railway is yet to be signed, preliminary steps have been initiated to assess and enhance the existing MRTS stations.

Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) officials have commenced inspections of MRTS stations to evaluate potential upgrades and identify necessary facilities. The objective is to bring these stations up to CMRL standards, ensuring improved lighting, enhanced security measures, and upgraded passenger amenities.

"We inspected two stations — Thirumayilai and Tiruvallikeni - as a sample, and we plan to appoint an agency who will carry out a study and give us an assessment about how to upgrade the stations. After we give the agency the guidelines, they will draft how each of the stations can be made better. From lighting to security to passenger amenities, everything will change. The idea is to bring these stations to CMRL standards," explained a CMRL official.

The takeover process will be gradual, with Railways continuing to operate the trains for an initial year. This transition period allows time for the comprehensive improvement of stations, which is expected to take at least a year post CMRL receives the necessary approvals.

The overarching plan goes beyond station upgrades, envisioning enhancements in related amenities and systems. Additionally, there are proposals to introduce air-conditioned coaches for MRTS trains, promising a significantly improved commuting experience for passengers upon the completion of this comprehensive transformation.

As Chennai Metro Rail prepares to take charge of the MRTS, the city anticipates a more efficient and modernized mass transit system, aligning with international standards.