PM Modi likely to launch Vadapalani–Poonamallee Metro Corridor in July
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to inaugurate the 14.6-kilometre metro rail section connecting Vadapalani and Poonamallee Bypass (Nazarethpet) during a visit to Tamil Nadu anticipated in the second or third week of July.
The newly completed stretch is part of the 26.1-kilometre Corridor IV of Chennai Metro Phase II, which will eventually link Lighthouse near Marina Beach with Poonamallee Bypass. Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has reportedly secured all required approvals for operations on this segment.
Government officials reportedly indicated that the Tamil Nadu administration has already informed the Prime Minister’s Office about the project’s readiness. A final confirmation on the inauguration schedule is awaited. Sources also suggest that the Prime Minister may combine the visit with the dedication of completed railway projects and the foundation-laying of two National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) projects.
Once operational, the metro service is expected to significantly reduce travel time between Poonamallee and Vadapalani, bringing the journey down from roughly one and a half hours to about 30 minutes. The corridor will connect directly with Chennai Metro’s existing Green Line at Vadapalani, improving access across the city.
In the initial phase of operations, trains departing from Poonamallee Bypass will stop at every station up to Porur. Beyond Porur, services will run directly to Vadapalani without halting at six intermediate stations, allowing faster travel.
The opening of this metro section is considered important for the proposed launch of the Kuthambakkam mofussil bus terminus near Thirumazhisai. The terminus, originally scheduled to open earlier this year, was delayed because of pending metro infrastructure work. Located approximately 6.5 kilometres from the Poonamallee Bypass metro station, the facility is expected to handle long-distance services currently operating from Chennai Mofussil Bus Terminus (CMBT).
Authorities are considering shifting TNSTC and SETC services heading toward destinations such as Bengaluru, Hosur, Vellore, Krishnagiri, Walajah and Tirupattur to the new terminal. Officials said decisions regarding the terminal’s launch and operational plans will likely be taken after the metro corridor is opened.