20 Mass Rapid Transit System stations to get metro-style upgrade in Chennai: MRTS merger MoU likely in November; what passengers can expect

Chennai’s MRTS (Mass Rapid Transit System) network could see its first round of passenger-friendly changes by early 2027, with authorities prioritising station security, lighting and cleanliness. The Tamil Nadu government is preparing to take over assets at all 20 stations on the Chennai Beach–St Thomas Mount corridor from Southern Railway. The transfer agreement is expected by the end of November, after which the state plans to begin the transition towards improved station facilities, according to TOI.

Tamil Nadu government awaits valuation of MRTS assets

A Cumta official told TOI that Southern Railway is expected to submit the valuation of land, buildings and other assets next week. The state government will discuss the figures before signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU).

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“Once they communicate the figures, it will be discussed at the higher level. The state government will then sign the MoU,” the official said.

“The first change we would make is to improve security, lighting and housekeeping.”

The transfer will cover more than 133 hectares of land and assets, including stations, tracks, viaducts, signalling and telecommunications systems, as well as overhead electrification equipment.

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CMRL to take charge of station facilities after handover

A 90-day transition period will begin once the MoU is signed. Under a separate agreement, the state government will hand over the MRTS system to Chennai Metro Rail Ltd (CMRL), which will deploy personnel for security, ticketing, cleaning and housekeeping.

Lifts and escalators are also expected to be restored in phases. However, procurement and installation could take about a year, meaning passengers may have to wait for some facilities to become fully operational.

The authorities have cautioned that improvements will not happen overnight. “Public should not expect all facilities to improve from day one. In a year, passengers can expect visible results. In three years, we can expect metro station standards at MRTS stations,” the official told TOI.

Southern Railway to operate MRTS trains for two more years

While station management and assets are being transferred, Southern Railway will continue to operate and maintain MRTS trains for 24 months. The arrangement is necessary because procuring new coaches could take around two years.

Revenue arrangements will continue according to the terms agreed during the transition period.

The phased approach is intended to allow the state government and CMRL to take over station-related responsibilities while ensuring train services continue without disruption.

MRTS upgrades follow safety concerns at Thirumayilai station

The proposed improvements come amid concerns over passenger safety following the death of 55-year-old V Vijaya. Her body was found in a disused room at Thirumayilai MRTS station four days after she went missing on October 8. Police suspect she may have fallen through an opening while looking for a toilet.

Improved lighting, security and housekeeping are among the first measures planned as the authorities prepare to take over the network.

MRTS merger plan dates back to 2011

The Ministry of Railways approved the MoU between Southern Railway and the Tamil Nadu government in August, moving forward with a merger proposal that was first put forward in 2011.

Cumta is also coordinating the separate agreement for the eventual handover of the system to CMRL. The MRTS began operations in 1995 and is expected to be integrated with Chennai’s wider public transport network.

The transition is expected to be gradual, with basic station improvements taking priority before the longer-term goal of bringing MRTS facilities up to metro station standards.


Inputs from TOI