Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has launched its first Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) ‘Kurinji’ for Corridor-5 of the Phase-2 project. This marks the beginning of underground tunneling from Kolathur Ramp, aiming to enhance connectivity across Chennai. The TBM will bore 246 meters towards Kolathur Station, reaching its destination by June 2025.
Introduction:
- Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has embarked on the ambitious Phase 2 expansion to improve metro connectivity across the city.
- The project, spanning 118.9 km, is funded by JICA, ADB, AIIB, and NDB.
- Corridor 5, a crucial part of this expansion, runs from Madhavaram Milk Colony to Shollinganallur covering 47.0 km with 5 underground and 39 elevated stations.
TBM Launch Details:
The first Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) ‘Kurinji’ was launched on February 19, 2025, from Kolathur Ramp. It will bore a 246-meter tunnel towards Kolathur Station (upline), expected to be completed by June 2025. After reaching Kolathur Station, it will be retrieved and relaunched towards Srinivasa Nagar, covering 1.06 km.
Other TBMs & Project Scope:
- Four TBMs will be deployed for Corridor 5, named after Tamil landscapes – Kurinji, Mullai, Marutham, and Neithal.
- TBM Mullai will arrive by March 2025, tunneling 603 meters from Villivakkam Railway Station to Villivakkam Bus Terminus.
- The remaining two TBMs will be launched as per site readiness.
- The 7.8 km underground twin tunnel section (3.9 km each) between Kolathur Ramp and Nathamuni Ramp is being executed by M/s Tata Projects Limited with the deployment of 4 TBMs.
Conclusion:
With the launch of TBM Kurinji, CMRL’s Phase 2 underground expansion gains momentum, promising enhanced metro connectivity and urban mobility. The upcoming TBMs will further accelerate the tunneling progress. Once completed, Corridor 5 will significantly improve transit efficiency, benefiting thousands of commuters across Chennai’s rapidly growing metropolitan areas.
Source: CMRL – Press Release | Image Credit: CMRL
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