Chennai: MRTS May Soon Join Metro Network, Railway Board Gives Initial Nod
City's long-awaited rail integration moves a step closer as groundwork for asset transfer nears completion.
Chennai's long-pending plan to merge its Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS) with the Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) may soon see real progress.
As per official sources, the Railway Board has agreed in principle to the proposal. However, a formal approval is still awaited.
This major development comes at a time when a key railway project has been completed and a basic plan for handing over assets is almost ready.
What Did the Railway Minister Say?
As per The New Indian Express, in a written reply to a question in Parliament raised by DMK MP Kanimozhi Karunanidhi, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw confirmed that Indian Railways and the Tamil Nadu government have jointly drawn up the terms for a memorandum of understanding (MoU).
However, the actual merger will depend on ironing out several issues, including how trains will be operated, who will maintain the infrastructure, and how safety will be managed post-transfer.
What Delayed the Merger So Far?
The transfer of MRTS operations to CMRL was put on hold due to an important project—the construction of a fourth railway line between Chennai Beach and Chennai Egmore. Sanctioned in March 2022 at a cost of Rs 279.8 crore, this project has now been completed and commissioned earlier this year.
A special team made up of Indian Railways and Chennai Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority (CUMTA) officials has outlined the broader structure of the MoU.
Once all operational concerns are resolved and formal approval is given, Chennai could witness a smoother, unified urban rail system that benefits thousands of daily commuters.
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