Chennai Metro Rail is gearing up to open two stretches - Nehru Park to Chennai Central and Saidapet to AG-DMS by March 2018 and track work has just been completed.
According to officials of Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL), track-laying on both stretches was done just a few weeks ago, after tunnelling work was completed. Also, construction of cross-passages, which help passengers exit a tunnel in case of an emergency, was also taken up simultaneously and completed. Between Nehru Park — Chennai Central and Saidapet — AG-DMS segments, tracks were laid for about 4 km and 5 km respectively, an official said.
"We will electrify these stretches in about two weeks and regular trial runs with trains will start. Though the signalling work has begun, it will take some time for completion," an official said. Civil works at stations are on a fast track and they are likely to be ready in two to three months, he added.
The installation of platform screen doors — protective barriers in underground Chennai Metro Rail stations to prevent passengers from accessing the track — is scheduled to be completed in two months, officials said.