The Chennai Metro Rail Phase 2 project has achieved a major milestone with the successful completion of tunnel boring work between Panagal Park and Kodambakkam. The achievement marks a key progress point in the city’s expanding urban transit infrastructure.
Key Highlights
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Project | Chennai Metro Phase 2 |
| Corridor | Corridor 4: Lighthouse to Poonamallee Bypass |
| Total Length | 26.8 km |
| Stations | 12 underground + 18 elevated |
| Tunnel Boring Segment | Panagal Park to Kodambakkam |
| Tunnel Length Completed | 2.47 km |
| Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) Used | Named “Mayil” |
| Start Date of Tunnel Work | May 2, 2024 |
| Completion Date | July 2025 |
Tunnel Boring Machine 'Mayil' Hits Target
- The TBM named “Mayil” (meaning peacock in Tamil) successfully completed the 2.47 km stretch of tunnel from Panagal Park to Kodambakkam.
- This operation navigated beneath densely built structures and elevated roads, posing several technical challenges.
- The Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) team—including officials and engineers—celebrated the breakthrough moment when the TBM surfaced at Kodambakkam.
Corridor Overview: Lighthouse to Poonamallee
- The stretch is part of Corridor 4 of Phase 2, which spans from Lighthouse in Marina Beach to Poonamallee’s Bypass road, totaling 26.8 km.
- The corridor includes:
- 12 underground stations
- 18 elevated stations
- This corridor aims to connect densely populated areas with commercial and transit hubs, easing congestion and improving daily commute efficiency.
Smooth Execution Without Public Disruption
- According to the CMRL, the tunneling was completed without causing disruption to public life or surface traffic, despite the complexity of tunneling beneath critical city infrastructure.
- The success is attributed to advanced planning, modern tunneling technology, and expert execution.
What’s Next?
- More tunnel breakthroughs are expected along this corridor in the coming months.
- Construction of underground stations and integration of systems (tracks, ventilation, power supply) will follow in this segment.
- Once fully operational, Corridor 4 will significantly enhance East-West connectivity in Chennai.
Conclusion
The completion of the Panagal Park to Kodambakkam tunnel segment marks a major step in Chennai Metro Phase 2’s progress. With modern tunneling machines like “Mayil” and meticulous coordination, Chennai is steadily moving towards a more connected, efficient, and sustainable public transport future.
India | Tamilnadu | Chennai
