24-07-2025
Chennai Metro: ‘Peacock' TBM Breaks Through After 14-Month Underground Mission, Know More
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After 14 months of drilling through rock and clay, Chennai Metro's 'Peacock' TBM has completed a challenging underground stretch.
Chennai Metro Rail's tunnel boring machine (TBM) 'Peacock' has successfully completed a crucial underground tunnel from Panagal Park to Kodambakkam.
This 2-km stretch, part of Corridor 4 under Phase II, will eventually allow commuters to travel smoothly between Kodambakkam and T. Nagar, avoiding traffic chaos above ground, as per The Hindu.
When Did Work Begin?
The journey began in May 2024. Over the last 14 months, TBM Peacock drilled through different layers of soil, navigating under major structures like the Usman Road and Kodambakkam flyovers, the Kodambakkam Suburban Railway Station, and even below 190 buildings – some of them over 50 years old.
Despite these challenges, the breakthrough was achieved on Wednesday afternoon near Meenakshi College for Women, without damaging the surrounding buildings or disturbing daily life.
How Difficult Was It?
The tunnel passes just three metres away from the Kodambakkam Suburban Railway Line. For safety, train speeds were temporarily reduced to 15–25 kmph for two weeks. The machine also had to drill through mixed soil – sandy, clayey, and rocky layers – especially tough in the Kodambakkam area.
To tackle this, engineers had to change the cutter discs 18 times during the operation. Yet, TBM Peacock stayed on track and completed the stretch efficiently.
What's Next for Corridor 4?
This part of Corridor 4 runs from Poonamallee to Light House via T. Nagar. The tunnel from Kodambakkam will now extend underground all the way to Light House. Once tracks are laid and stations are built, this route will greatly reduce travel time for thousands of commuters.
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First Published:
July 24, 2025, 12:59 IST
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