Chennai MRTS extension opens after 20 years; Key points

The long-pending 4.5km MRTS extension from Velachery to St Thomas Mount was opened after nearly two decades, aiming to improve connectivity in Chennai’s southern suburbs and link multiple rail systems. (PHOTO CREDIT: C Suresh Kumar/TNN)

With the extension operational, St Thomas Mount has become the city’s second intermodal transport hub after Chennai Central, connecting MRTS, suburban rail and metro networks at one location. (PHOTO CREDIT: C Suresh Kumar/TNN)

Although three stations were planned on the new stretch, only St Thomas Mount and Puzhuthivakkam began operations. Adambakkam station remained closed as construction and finishing works are still ongoing. (PHOTO CREDIT: C Suresh Kumar/TNN)

During initial operations, MRTS trains slowed near St Thomas Mount but did not halt at Adambakkam, passing the unfinished station before stopping at Puzhuthivakkam instead. (PHOTO CREDIT: C Suresh Kumar/TNN)

Passengers reported several missing facilities at operational stations, including locked toilets, closed ticket counters, and the absence of lifts, escalators and drinking water facilities. (PHOTO CREDIT: C Suresh Kumar/TNN)

Entry points and station areas were reportedly littered with rubbish, while concourses and platforms appeared dirty, highlighting concerns over maintenance on the very first day of operations. (PHOTO CREDIT: C Suresh Kumar/TNN)

Commuters faced difficulties finding MRTS platforms due to inadequate signage and weak public announcements, making navigation challenging after entering stations from metro or suburban rail sections. (PHOTO CREDIT: C Suresh Kumar/TNN)

At Puzhuthivakkam station, the entrance connecting nearby residential areas was partially blocked by piles of rubbish, while lifts and escalators were still under installation. (PHOTO CREDIT: C Suresh Kumar/TNN)

With escalators and lifts unavailable, passengers, especially elderly commuters, had to climb steep staircases, causing inconvenience for those with mobility difficulties. (PHOTO CREDIT: C Suresh Kumar/TNN)

Despite initial shortcomings, commuters believe the extension will significantly improve travel, enabling seamless journeys between southern suburbs, central neighbourhoods like Mylapore and Triplicane, and the IT corridor areas. (PHOTO CREDIT: C Suresh Kumar/TNN)