Chennai Metro Phase 2 gets ₹3,000 crore boost from Central Government

Chennai, India (Metro Rail Today): In a major financial push to one of India’s most ambitious urban transport projects, the Central Government has released ₹3,000 crore for Chennai Metro Phase 2 in the ongoing financial year 2025–26. The funding forms part of the Union Government’s committed share for the ₹61,843 crore mega infrastructure project, aimed at transforming urban mobility across the Tamil Nadu capital.

The Phase 2 expansion of Chennai Metro spans 118.9 km and includes three corridors—Corridor 3 from Madhavaram to SIPCOT, Corridor 4 from Light House to Poonamallee Bypass, and Corridor 5 from Madhavaram to Sholinganallur. Once completed, the network will significantly improve connectivity across the city's densely populated suburbs and central commercial hubs.

The released amount of ₹3,000 crore will accelerate the execution of multiple civil and systems contracts currently underway, particularly for underground stretches and elevated viaducts. A significant portion of this funding is expected to support ongoing tunnelling and station construction, including progress on the Light House–Kodambakkam Flyover section and key interchange hubs at Thirumayilai, Taramani, and Koyambedu.

According to officials from Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL), the Centre’s support has been timely and crucial in maintaining momentum on all three corridors, which are being executed simultaneously. The funding also signals the Centre’s confidence in the strategic importance of the project to enhance public transport, ease road congestion, and reduce carbon emissions.

Earlier this year, TBM breakthroughs and major contract awards marked significant progress in tunnelling and systems integration. The project has also received international financial support from JICA, ADB, AIIB, and NDB, apart from the contributions by the Government of Tamil Nadu and the Centre.

As per current timelines, Chennai Metro Phase 2 is scheduled for partial opening by 2026, with full commissioning expected by 2028–29. The state and central governments are working in close coordination to meet the ambitious execution targets.

Mrs. Mamta Shah, MD & CEO of Urban Infra Group, commenting on the Centre’s funding release, said:
"The infusion of ₹3,000 crore by the Government of India underscores the national priority given to mass rapid transit systems like Chennai Metro Phase 2. This project is not just about transport—it’s about economic transformation, environmental sustainability, and improving the quality of life for millions of urban dwellers."

With a focus on Make-in-India, smart ticketing, and intermodal integration, Chennai Metro Phase 2 is poised to become one of India’s most modern and efficient metro rail networks. As the groundwork deepens and viaducts rise across the city, Chennai inches closer to a future where public transit leads the way in shaping urban growth.