New Delhi: Indian Railways approved the ₹993 crore Arakkonam-Chengalpattu project to strengthen Chennai’s suburban rail network and improve passenger and freight movement across the corridor.
The 68-km doubling project falls under Southern Railway and forms part of the Chennai suburban circular rail network connecting Chennai Beach, Tambaram, Chengalpattu and Arakkonam.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said the project would ease congestion on the busy suburban network and improve punctuality and operational efficiency. He added that the railway line would support movement of cement, automobiles, foodgrains, iron and steel.
According to officials, the existing single-line section currently operates at high capacity utilisation. However, passenger and freight traffic are expected to rise further in the coming years.
The doubling work will reduce detention time for trains and improve service frequency on suburban routes. In addition, authorities expect the project to strengthen connectivity for industrial and commercial movement.
Arakkonam-Chengalpattu project to support industrial corridor
The railway corridor serves several industrial and economic hubs, including Mahindra World City, Sriperumbudur, Oragadam and Irungattukottai. These areas house major automobile, cement and manufacturing industries.
Officials also highlighted the strategic importance of the route because of the proposed Parandur Airport project near Kancheepuram. They said the airport development could increase passenger and cargo movement in the region.
Furthermore, Indian Railways said the project formed part of its broader infrastructure modernisation efforts across the country. Authorities aim to improve network capacity, operational efficiency and safety through such projects.
The ministry stated that the Arakkonam-Chengalpattu project would improve suburban connectivity while supporting industrial growth and freight transportation in Tamil Nadu.
Officials added that passengers would benefit from faster, safer and more reliable rail services after completion of the doubling works.
