Track laying work picks up pace for extension of Metro.

With the Phase I project of Chennai Metro nearly complete, the focus has now shifted to its extension project that extends from Washermanpet to Wimco Nagar, where work has picked up pace with the laying of tracks. By June 2020, this stretch will be ready.

The Phase I extension project, which will cost Rs. 3,770 crore, covers a 9-km stretch from Washermanpet to Wimco Nagar, passing through Korukkupet, Sir Theagaraya College, Tondiarpet, Toll Gate, Thangal, Gowri Ashram and Tiruvottiyur. It will be a partially underground.

According to CMRL officials, the laying of track started last week and the contractor, Apurvakriti Infrastructure, will carry out the work for 18 km (9 km onward line and 9 km return line).

“We are hoping to finish it before the end of this year so that there is adequate time for trials,” an official said.

The construction of the tunnel between Washermanpet and Korukkupet is over. Work is on to build the viaduct for the elevated stretch from Korukkupet to Wimco Nagar.

Meanwhile, the nine stations along the corridor are being constructed, officials said.

The Phase I extension project was announced after a delay in the first phase.

After finishing the soil tests, the State government gave the go-ahead soon, but it took nearly six years to get the Centre’s approval and the funds.

Once the stretch is complete, commuters looking for an alternative to MTC buses will find it convenient to use the mass rapid transit to travel to the city. Since the stretch passes through Chennai Central, it will give them the option of seamlessly switching over to MRTS or suburban trains, officials said.

THE HINDU