CHENNAI: Stray dogs roaming and blocking entry points at several Chennai Metro stations have raised serious safety concerns among commuters, particularly at busy hubs such as Egmore Metro Station, where thousands of passengers, including families and children, pass through every day.

The Chennai Metro Rail network has become a key mode of transport in the city due to its swift, clean, and secure transit system. Currently, the Metro operates 41 stations across the Blue and Green Lines, spanning nearly 45 kilometres, connecting the northern parts of Chennai with southern areas, including the airport.

In recent months, commuters have noticed an increasing presence of stray dogs at the entrances of many Metro stations.

At Egmore Metro station one of the most important stations in the network, with direct access to main Egmore station for long distance travel, groups of stray dogs are often seen sleeping, roaming, and crawling near entry and exit points.

Passengers say the situation creates panic, especially during peak hours, and poses a risk to public safety. A regular commuter, Rajinath, said he encounters stray dogs at the station entrance almost every day.

“Sometimes the dogs fight among themselves, and at times they chase vehicles. Thousands of passengers use this station daily, many of them with children. The presence of stray dogs has increased safety concerns for commuters,” he said.

With reports of stray dog attacks increasing across the city, commuters have urged the authorities and Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) to take immediate steps to remove stray dogs from Metro station premises and ensure safe access for passengers.

DT Next contacted CMRL officials seeking clarification on the issue, and the authorities assured that necessary action would be taken to address the concerns raised.