The decks have been cleared for the opening of the second stretch of Chennai Metro Rail with the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS) approving the service between Little Mount and Chennai airport.
Officials of Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) said the 9-km stretch may be thrown open for service in the second week of this month. “We have given a date to the State government for approval. It is most likely to happen between August 16 and 20,” an official said.
Also, sources in the Ministry of Urban Development confirmed that Minister K. Venkaiah Naidu will be participating in the inauguration of this stretch.
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CMRS officials inspected the stations and trains from Little Mount and Chennai airport only a few days ago. The officials said that suggestions regarding a few corrections and improvements had been given to CMRL officials.
When the second stretch is opened, commuters can directly travel from Koyambedu, which is close to Chennai Moffusil Bus Terminus (also a station) to Chennai Airport, a distance of about 15 km.
The first underground stretch of Chennai Metro between Thirumangalam and Nehru Park is likely to be opened by the end of this year.
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