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The Velachery St Thomas Mount extension of Chennai's Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS) moved closer to operations after the Chief Commissioner of Railway Safety carried out the mandatory inspection of the corridor. The inspection included a speed trial, verification of track quality, signalling systems, electrification infrastructure and passenger amenities. The 4.5-km elevated stretch includes three stations and has been developed at an estimated cost of about INR 734 crore. The project has faced several delays since it was first proposed due to land acquisition issues, coordination with other infrastructure works and technical challenges.
The Velachery St Thomas Mount section of the Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS) in Chennai underwent a statutory safety inspection by the Chief Commissioner of Railway Safety (CCRS), Janak Kumar Garg, as part of the process required before passenger services can begin. Advertisement
The inspection covered the entire corridor and involved detailed checks of railway infrastructure and operational systems. Officials examined the track structure, signalling network, overhead electrification equipment, bridges and station facilities along the route. A speed trial was also carried out during the inspection to evaluate the stability and safety of the line. During such trials, trains generally operate at speeds slightly higher than the proposed commercial speed to assess track strength and operational reliability.
Railway authorities explained that the inspection is a mandatory requirement for commissioning any new railway line. The safety commissioner evaluates both the physical infrastructure and operational readiness before issuing approval for passenger operations. The review also includes examination of construction records, welding quality reports, track geometry details and compliance with safety standards.
Before the inspection, railway teams had completed several preparatory works along the corridor. Electrical checks were conducted on the traction power system, including the overhead equipment and substations supplying electricity to the trains. These tests were necessary to confirm that the electrification system meets the required operational and safety standards. Trial movements of trains were also carried out to verify signalling response and power supply stability.
The Velachery St Thomas Mount extension covers a distance of about 4.5 kilometres and includes three stations Puzhuthivakkam, Adambakkam and St Thomas Mount. The project has been developed at an estimated cost of about INR 734 crore. Once operational, the extension will complete the MRTS alignment and allow direct rail connectivity from Chennai Beach to St Thomas Mount.
The St Thomas Mount station will serve as an important interchange point where passengers can switch between the MRTS network, suburban railway services and the Chennai Metro system. This integration is expected to improve connectivity between several residential and commercial areas of the city and make daily commuting easier for passengers travelling across different transport networks.
The project has experienced a long construction timeline. It was originally proposed in 2008 as part of the expansion of Chennai's MRTS network. Progress slowed over the years due to land acquisition challenges, alignment adjustments and coordination with other urban infrastructure works in the area. At one stage, a girder collapse during construction required additional safety checks and structural assessments, which further delayed completion.
In recent months, several technical milestones were completed to prepare the corridor for final approval. These included load testing of the elevated structures, energisation of the 25-kilovolt overhead traction system and verification of signalling and communication equipment. These steps were necessary before the line could be presented to the safety commissioner for inspection.
Railway officials indicated that passenger services on the Velachery St Thomas Mount section are expected to begin on March 10, subject to the safety commissioner granting approval after reviewing the inspection findings.
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