DMK welcomes Metro Rail launch, takes credit for bringing it

CHENNAI: The DMK today welcomed the launch of Metro Rail services in the city and claimed credit for bringing the transport system to this metropolis.

DMK Treasurer M K Stalin said that the inauguration of the Metro Rail done by Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa, brought 'great joy' to him.

"This project was initiated by the DMK government to provide the city with a world-class mass rapid transport system. The sanction of Rs 14,600 crore for the Metro project was approved by the DMK cabinet on November 7, 2007," he said in a statement here.

As then Minister for Local Administration, he had visited Japan to seek a loan for the project and the construction work which began in 2009 was unfortunately delayed, the statement said.

"At last, the long wait is over for the residents of Chennai," he said, adding, the benefits of such a Mass Rapid Transport System included decreased commuting time and reduced vehicular congestion, among others.

With the inauguration of the Metro, Chennai was one step closer to the definition of 'an advanced city,' he said while urging that metro services should be expanded to all parts of the city and the state.

Jayalalithaa had flagged off the first of the Metro Rail services today with the government launching trains on the Alandur-Koyambedu sector.