CHENNAI: The Southern Railway has initiated a major infrastructure expansion to double train handling capacity in Chennai and Coimbatore within the next five years. The effort aims to reduce congestion at key stations, boost suburban and long-distance connectivity, and prepare the network for rising passenger demand through 2030.
In the Chennai division, projects are focused on Dr MGR Chennai Central, Chennai Egmore, Tambaram and the wider suburban system, which together handle nearly 12.4 lakh passengers daily. Egmore is undergoing large-scale redevelopment with two new terminal buildings, more escalators and lifts, and improved arrivals and departures management, while Tambaram is being upgraded for smoother transfer between suburban and express services.
A major addition to the network will be the proposed new terminal at Perambur. The facility, estimated to cost Rs 342 crore, is designed with seven platforms and will allow several new originating and terminating services to be shifted from Egmore and Central. The project is expected to significantly ease operational pressure on core terminals and improve flexibility in scheduling.
To support the expanded terminal capacity, SR is progressing with multiple multi-tracking and new line projects across the Chennai region. Recently completed works include the fourth line between Beach and Egmore to improve suburban frequency. The MRTS extension to St Thomas Mount is also nearing completion.
Several new capacity enhancement works have been sanctioned, including the Attipattu-Gummidipoondi third and fourth lines, Tambaram-Chengalpattu fourth line and Ambattur-Villivakkam fifth and sixth lines.
In addition, approvals have been secured for major multi-tracking stretches such as Gummidipoondi-Gudur, Arakkonam-Renigunta and Arakkonam-Chengalpattu. A new line connecting Guduvancheri with Sriperumbudur and Irungattukottai is planned to strengthen links to industrial corridors.
In Coimbatore, Podanur Junction is being developed as a second major terminal with stabling lines, pit lines and yard reorganisation to support originating train services and reduce the burden on Coimbatore Junction. Redevelopment works worth Rs 24 crore under the Amrit Bharat scheme are nearing completion. Coimbatore North is also being improved with upgraded station infrastructure at a cost of Rs 11.5 crore.
Coimbatore Junction itself has been proposed for redevelopment through the public-private partnership model with an approved investment plan of Rs 692.65 crore.
Railway officials expect the phased commissioning of upgraded terminals, additional lines and operational improvements to help accommodate more trains every year, enabling growing mobility needs to be met without major delays.