Chennai Metro’s Phase 2 project saw a major milestone as TBM Palar completed its 708-metre tunnel drive from Chetpet to Sterling Road on October 9, 2024. This breakthrough marks significant progress in Corridor 3’s development, showcasing technical precision, especially while tunnelling beneath the Coovam River and densely populated areas.
Introduction:
In a significant development, Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has reached a major milestone in the ongoing Phase 2 development, which spans three corridors over 116.1 km. The latest achievement comes in the form of a tunnel breakthrough by TBM Palar, a key element in the construction of Corridor 3.
Tunnelling Journey:
The tunnelling for Corridor 3, from Chetpet to Sterling Road, began in September 2023. TBM Siruvani reached the Sterling Road shaft in the Downline by August 2024. TBM Palar started its drive in January 2024 on the Upline and achieved its breakthrough on October 9, 2024, after covering a tunnel length of 708 metres.
Challenges & Precision:
Throughout the tunnelling process, TBM Palar navigated through clay, sand, and sections of Grade V rock, including complex areas beneath landmarks such as Chetpet Corporation School, Dhoby Ghat, and Karukathamman Temple. The highlight was the precise crossing under the Coovam River, a challenging 52-metre stretch with minimal overburden, completed without causing any blowouts or ground settlement.
Community Impact:
Thanks to advanced tunnelling technology, the entire operation was carried out without any noticeable impact on surface structures. Many residents were unaware that TBM Palar was operating beneath them, a testament to the success and accuracy of CMRL’s engineering.
Conclusion:
The TBM Palar breakthrough highlights the progress and precision of Chennai Metro’s Phase 2 Corridor 3 construction. This achievement, particularly in navigating difficult terrain and river crossings, marks another step toward expanding Chennai’s metro network, bringing enhanced connectivity and modern infrastructure to the city.
Source: CMRL – Press Release | Image Credit: CMRL
