The Asian Development Bank has approved a $240 million loan to support the expansion of the Chennai Metro Rail network. The funding will support new corridors, stations, and system development of sections of metro lines 3, 4, and 5. It aims to improve mobility, climate resilience, and inclusive urban transport across the Chennai Metropolitan Area.

Introduction:

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $240 million loan to support the next phase of the Chennai Metro Rail Investment Project, marking a significant step toward improving urban mobility in one of India’s fastest-growing metropolitan regions. This loan represents the second tranche under ADB’s $780 million multitranche financing facility approved in 2022.

The newly approved tranche follows the earlier $350 million loan provided under the first tranche and reinforces ADB’s commitment to strengthening Chennai’s public transport infrastructure. The funding aims to deliver cleaner, safer, and more reliable transport options while supporting the city’s long-term low-carbon development objectives.

Expanding Metro Connectivity Across Chennai:

The second tranche will finance the construction and system development of key sections of metro lines 3, 4, and 5. Together, these corridors will span approximately 20 kilometers, combining elevated and underground alignments. The project also includes the development of 18 new metro stations designed with universal access features to accommodate passengers of all abilities.

Special emphasis has been placed on disaster-resilient infrastructure to ensure the safety and continuity of metro services during extreme weather events. These measures are especially important for Chennai, a coastal city increasingly exposed to climate-related risks.

Key Components Funded Under Tranche 2:

The ADB loan will support a wide range of civil and system works, including:

These improvements are designed to ensure smoother passenger transfers and encourage greater use of public and non-motorized transport.

Insight:

Mr. Mio Oka, ADB Country Director for India, said, “This project will deliver safer, faster, and more reliable daily travel in Chennai while advancing the city’s low-carbon development goals. We look forward to continued collaboration to expand metro connectivity and further enhance the capacity of Chennai’s metro and suburban rail systems to meet the city’s growing mobility needs.”

Focus on Inclusivity and Sustainability:

Beyond physical infrastructure, the project places strong emphasis on social inclusion and safety. Station designs will incorporate features that enhance accessibility, while targeted measures will improve travel safety for women and vulnerable users. The project also supports initiatives to increase non-fare revenues, strengthening the long-term financial sustainability of the Chennai Metro system.

Construction under this tranche is scheduled for completion by mid-2028, bringing Chennai closer to a modern, integrated, and resilient urban transport network.

Conclusion:

The $240 million ADB loan marks a major milestone in Chennai Metro’s expansion, supporting sustainable transport, climate resilience, and inclusive urban development. By strengthening connectivity and safety, the project will play a vital role in meeting the city’s growing mobility needs and shaping a greener future.

Source: ADB – Press Release | Image Credit (representational): CMRL

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