Extension of timings likely for airport line of Metro.

Chennai Metro Rail may extend its service timings when the next stretch connecting Chennai airport with other parts of the city opens late in August.

According to sources in the Chennai Metro Rail project, discussions are on to extend the timings since there may be many late night and early morning flights taking off and landing at the airport, and passengers could be benefitted if the Metro Rail services are available at that time.

Chennai Metro Rail that started operations from Koyambedu to Alandur last June begins its first service at 6 a.m. that ends at 10 p.m.

“When the next stretch from Little Mount to Chennai airport opens late in August, the services may begin as early as 4 a.m. and may be extended up to 11 p.m. But this may happen only if the patronage is good enough,” an official said.

If the second stretch opens, commuters can directly travel from Koyambedu to Chennai airport, a distance of 16 km.

This stretch has already received fitness approval from Research Design and Standards Organisation few weeks ago.

The final inspection of the stretch will be carried out next week.

THE HINDU