4 days ago

Tamil Nadu advances urban transit plans across five cities

Tamil Nadu is studying better public transport for several cities with growing traffic.

It looked at metro-style systems for Coimbatore, Madurai, Salem, Tiruchirappalli and Tirunelveli.

Tirunelveli was found unsuitable for a suitable MRTS.

Salem’s report is still being examined.

Work in Tiruchirappalli has been delayed because Chennai Metro Phase-II already has large financial commitments.

Coimbatore and Madurai’s metro plans were sent back by the central ministry.

The ministry said bus rapid transit could be built in those cities instead.

Tamil Nadu is also seeking approval for more Chennai Metro lines and an extension to Kilambakkam.

Key facts

Cities studied: Coimbatore, Madurai, Salem, Tiruchirappalli and Tirunelveli
Funding proposal: Coimbatore and Madurai metro proposals were recommended under a 50:50 equity-sharing arrangement.
Central response: The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs returned the Coimbatore and Madurai proposals and raised no objection to at-grade or elevated BRT systems.
Salem status: The Detailed Feasibility Report is under consideration.
Tiruchirappalli status: Further action was deferred because of substantial committed liabilities associated with Chennai Metro Phase-II.
Phase-II extensions: Proposed extensions include Poonamallee Bypass–Sunguvarchatram via Sriperumbudur and Koyambedu–Pattabiram up to the Outer Ring Road via Ambattur and Avadi.
Airport–Kilambakkam extension: A revised DPR was approved by the State government and sent to the Centre; approval, funding and external financial assistance are awaited.

thehindubusinessline.com · 5 days ago