Airport connectivity to get a boost.

Nearly a year after the first service of Chennai Metro Rail began from Koyambedu to Alandur, services on the next stretch, from Little Mount up to Chennai airport, are all set to begin in a few months.

A few weeks ago, authorities from Research Design and Standards Organisation (RDSO) inspected the trains and will soon give a report of clearance.

This is a statutory requirement before passengers can travel in the Chennai Metro Rail trains.

Soon after the clearance from RDSO, officials of Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) will approach Commissioner for Metro Rail Safety for the final clearance, after which the services can start.

The opening of services on the second stretch is particularly significant since it is expected to improve connectivity to Chennai airport for thousands of city commuters.

S. Chandrakumar, a resident of Mogappair who works in Meenambakkam, said his travel time would reduce by half when the second service becomes operational.

“For the past year, I have been taking the Chennai Metro from Koyambedu to Alandur and subsequently, a bus to Meenambakkam. I’m waiting for the second service to open so that I can travel directly to the airport in about half an hour,” he said.

Sources say the maximum fare may be Rs. 50 when the second service becomes operational.

Currently, the fares for travel from Koyambedu till Alandur range between Rs. 10-40.


THE HINDU