Systra to conduct travel demand study for Chennai Metro's Tambaram-Velachery Line

Chennai, India (Metro Rail Today): In a significant move towards enhancing urban connectivity, Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has officially inked a Contract Agreement with M/s SYSTRA MVA Consulting (India) Pvt. Ltd. The agreement, signed on March 5, 2024, marks a crucial step in reassessing the Travel Demand Forecasting Study for the implementation of a Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS) from Tambaram to Velachery, potentially extending to either Guindy or Little Mount.

Scope of Work and Expansion

The scope of the project encompasses the preparation of a comprehensive Travel Demand Forecasting Study for the Mass Rapid Transit System, covering a 26 km corridor between Tambaram and Velachery. Notably, the extension to either Guindy or Little Mount is a pivotal aspect of this reassessment. The earlier Detailed Project Report (DFR) submitted to the Government of Tamil Nadu (GoTN) only considered the corridor up to Velachery MRTS station. The current reassessment aims to rectify this by incorporating connections to existing Metro stations, particularly through key commercial and residential areas of Velachery.

Contract Signing Details

The Contract Agreement signing ceremony was attended by key representatives, with Thiru. T. Archunan, IRSE – Director (Projects), signing on behalf of CMRL, and Thiru. Sandeep Fuller – Senior Vice President, representing M/s SYSTRA MVA Consulting (India) Pvt. Ltd, New Delhi.

Thiru. T. Livingstone Eliazer, Chief General Manager (PP&D), Thiru. S. Ashok Kumar, Chief General Manager (T & EC), Dr. D Jebaselwin Gladson, General Manager (CM), along with other officials from CMRL and the consulting firm, graced the occasion.

Significance of the Reassessment

The decision to reassess the Travel Demand Forecasting Study arises from the initial DFR's limitations, which did not consider the potential connectivity to existing Metro stations through Velachery's primary commercial and residential hubs. This reassessment is poised to provide a more holistic understanding of the travel demands and urban planning requirements for the expanded corridor.

Future Implications

As Chennai continues to evolve as a metropolitan hub, this initiative holds promise for residents and commuters. The expanded Mass Rapid Transit System is expected to facilitate smoother connectivity, reducing travel time and enhancing accessibility to key areas. The incorporation of the reassessment findings into the existing DFR is anticipated to pave the way for a more comprehensive and integrated urban transportation network.

The Contract Agreement between CMRL and M/s SYSTRA MVA Consulting (India) Pvt. Ltd marks a significant milestone in Chennai's urban development journey. The reassessment of the Travel Demand Forecasting Study reflects a proactive approach to addressing evolving transportation needs. As the project unfolds, it is poised to redefine Chennai's mass transit landscape, promoting sustainable and efficient commuting for its growing population.