Another RRTS Train Service Planned for Chennai Metro Corridor

Chennai is gearing up for a significant boost in its public transport infrastructure, with plans underway to introduce another Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) train service as part of the city’s expanding metro network. Survey operations for the new route have already commenced, and the project aims to connect Parandur — the site of Chennai’s upcoming international airport — with the heart of the city.

The proposed RRTS will offer high-speed connectivity, with trains capable of running at speeds between 160 and 180 km per hour. Designed with modern amenities such as fully air-conditioned coaches, Wi-Fi connectivity, and automatic doors, the system will provide a faster and more comfortable travel experience. It is being promoted as an eco-friendly alternative to conventional transport systems, operating entirely on electricity with a low carbon footprint.

The RRTS model has already been successfully implemented in the Delhi–NCR region, where the first phase connects Delhi with Meerut, Alwar, and Panipat. Known for its speed and efficiency, the RRTS system bridges the gap between metro and long-distance rail services, offering a modern and sustainable option for urban and regional commuters.

In Tamil Nadu, six bidders have expressed interest in preparing a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for RRTS routes originating from Chennai and Coimbatore. One bidder will soon be selected to finalize the DPR. According to the state government’s recent budget announcement, tenders have been invited for developing a high-speed railway network capable of operating at 160 km per hour. The Chennai Metro Rail Corporation (CMRL) has initiated feasibility studies for three proposed corridors: Chennai–Tindivanam, Chennai–Kancheepuram–Vellore, and Coimbatore–Salem.

The first proposed RRTS corridor, stretching 167 kilometers, will connect Chennai with Villupuram via Chengalpattu and Tindivanam. Originating from either Chennai Central or Egmore, the route will pass through major suburban hubs such as Tambaram and Chengalpattu before terminating at Villupuram. This corridor is expected to significantly enhance connectivity for commuters from the southern suburbs of Chennai and nearby districts. The second corridor, extending 140 kilometers, will link Chennai with Vellore through Sriperumbudur, Parandur, Kancheepuram, Arakkonam, and Ranipet, serving key industrial and educational regions.

Alongside these high-speed rail projects, the Tamil Nadu government has approved the 52.94-kilometer Poonamallee–Parandur Metro extension under CMRL. This metro link will connect the western suburbs of Chennai to the upcoming Parandur Greenfield Airport, reducing traffic congestion and cutting down travel time. The extension will also link with the Kuthambakkam Bus Terminus, enhancing last-mile connectivity. Four companies have submitted bids to prepare the DPR for the 43.63-kilometer metro line, which will outline details such as the number of stations, route alignment, train type, and total project cost.

As part of this initiative, two metro stations are planned at Parandur — one near the domestic terminal area and another close to the international terminal. Together, the introduction of the RRTS corridors and the expansion of Chennai’s metro network represent a transformative step in Tamil Nadu’s urban mobility strategy, combining speed, sustainability, and modern infrastructure to redefine regional transportation in the years ahead.