Third rail terminal at Tambaram nearing completion

Tambaram was proposed as the third rail hub after Chennai Central and Chennai Egmore lacked space for expansion. As a result, the empty coaches were being stationed in various suburban stations between Egmore and Tambaram. The Southern Railway extended Chennai-Kachiguda Express up to Chengalpattu following press reports of the train being parked nearly 50 km away daily. 

Tambaram was thought of as the third terminal as nearly 1 lakh passengers including 80,000 season ticket holders, use the station daily. Moreover, nearly 40 south bound trains cross the station daily and Tambaram was ideal for residents from the extended areas of the Chennai city to board. Space availability for expansion was the main reason for Tambaram being chosen. Though the third terminal was expected to be ready before December 2016, Cyclone Vardah delayed the project. An estimated Rs 34.68 crore was sanctioned in 2008-09 for the terminal, which included pit lines, a 11 KV substation and a loco shed. Southern Railway GM Vashist Johri had stated earlier that a third line between Tambaram and Chengalpatttu was also on the cards. 

The delay, according to railway officials, was due to the contractor being financially locked up in another job. However, a new contractor completed the work, added SR officials. 

On the new timetable planned for release in October, the officials said, “The new terminal’s services are likely to be incorporated into the revised schedule.” 

As of now, two pit lines were completed. “The pit lines would improve train maintenance including prompt repairs, which would thus increasing passenger safety.” Senior officials added, “Coaches would be washed and cleaned and have pesticide spayed, while regular maintenance of coach undercarriage and engines are now possible.”

Chennai DRM Naveen Gulati said, “There are some minor hitches, which are being attended to. The terminal is reasonably close to completion and work would be expedited so that it became operational soon.” 

Officials said that after the Chennai–Guruvayoor Express departed from Egmore there was enough time for operating two more trains, but coach availability was an issue.