Safety trials begin on Chennai Metro Phase 2 from Poonamallee Bypass to Porur Junction

Chennai, India (Metro Rail Today): In a major step toward expanding Chennai’s urban transit network, Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has commenced safety certification trials on a key stretch of Phase 2, Corridor 4, between Poonamallee Bypass and Porur Junction. The trials mark a significant milestone in the lead-up to passenger operations on the 1A viaduct section of the corridor.

The certification trials, which began on August 16, are being conducted by the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO)—the technical arm of the Ministry of Railways, Government of India. As per national regulations, all metro systems must undergo a series of rigorous tests under the supervision of RDSO to receive technical clearance for public operations.

“The commencement of safety certification trials marks a significant milestone in the progress of the Phase 2 project of CMRL,” said Thiru M.A. Siddique, I.A.S., Managing Director, CMRL. “These trials reaffirm our commitment to safety, reliability, and world-class service delivery. With steady progress, we are moving closer to commissioning the project for the benefit of Chennai’s citizens.”

The trials focus on evaluating critical safety and operational parameters, including:

• Ride comfort for future passengers at varying speeds

• Traction and braking performance of the new metro trains

• Stability and alignment of the track infrastructure

• System integration between rolling stock and signaling equipment

Trains are being operated at speeds of up to 90 kmph, the corridor’s design speed. The Poonamallee Bypass–Porur Junction stretch—covering approximately 9 km—is being monitored in both directions, with test runs expected to continue for about two weeks.

The trial also aims to ensure the seamless integration of rolling stock with overhead electrification (OHE), signaling systems, and track geometry, all of which are essential for passenger safety and operational efficiency.

During the test run on August 16, the train successfully covered the entire stretch in just 9 minutes, reflecting the potential for swift commuter travel once operations begin.

Phase 2 of the Chennai Metro spans over 118.9 km, and the Poonamallee–Porur stretch is among the first segments targeted for early commissioning. The corridor is expected to significantly improve east-west connectivity in the city, particularly benefiting fast-growing residential and commercial zones in West Chennai.

Once the safety trials are successfully completed and certified by RDSO, the next steps will include:

• Inspection by the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS)

• Final clearance and approvals

• Trial runs for operational readiness

• Opening of the corridor to the public

With the Poonamallee Bypass–Porur Junction stretch nearing completion, Chennai is inching closer to realizing its vision of a fully integrated and expanded metro network under Phase 2. The timely and successful conduct of safety trials is a strong indicator of the city's commitment to safe, efficient, and modern urban transportation.