Chennai Metro Update: Chennai Metro Rail is preparing to complete tunnelling work between Royapettah and Dr. Radhakrishnan Salai by the end of this month, marking a major milestone in its Phase II project. The underground link is part of Corridor 3, which runs for 45.8 km from Madhavaram to SIPCOT via Royapettah and Mylapore.

According to The Hindu report, the 118.9-km Phase II network includes long underground stretches, particularly between Madhavaram and Taramani. To build these, tunnel boring machines (TBMs) are deployed at multiple points, each working on smaller sections depending on station locations and soil conditions.

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In July 2023, a TBM named Bhavani began drilling a 966-metre tunnel from Royapettah station towards Dr. Radhakrishnan Salai. Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) officials confirmed that the machine is now close to its destination and will complete its breakthrough soon.

Although engineers expected hard rock and clay to slow progress, the stretch proved easier than anticipated. The soil mainly comprised sand and silt, allowing the TBM to work smoothly. “This was a fairly straightforward stretch. The machine moved under Royapettah High Road without any issues. We exercised extra caution while tunnelling beneath the Government Royapettah Hospital,” a CMRL official said.

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Another TBM, Adyar, is also working in the area and is expected to finish by October.

Once operational, the Royapettah–Dr. Radhakrishnan Salai section will serve commuters travelling to key landmarks including the YMCA, Government Royapettah Hospital, offices, hotels and shopping hubs. The link will also strengthen north–south connectivity, making travel across the city easier and faster for thousands of daily passengers.