Tamil Nadu Budget 2026: ‘Efforts are on to get Centre’s approval for three Chennai Metro Rail extension projects’
Tamil Nadu Finance Minister N. Marie Wilson announced that the state is actively seeking central government approval for three major Chennai Metro Rail extension projects. These proposed expansions aim to connect key suburban hubs, while the ongoing Phase II project is nearing the commissioning of its first stretch.
Why it matters
The expansion of Chennai's metro network is critical for addressing urban congestion and improving transit connectivity for the city's rapidly growing suburban population.
Tamil Nadu Finance Minister N. Marie Wilson, on Wednesday (August 5, 2026), said the State government is taking efforts to secure the Centre’s approval for the three Chennai Metro Rail extension projects.
In the Budget , he said, three stretches — Chennai airport to Kilambakkam (₹9,335 crore), Koyambedu to Pattabiram via Avadi (₹9,744 crore) and Poonamallee to Sunguvarchathiram via Sriperumbudur (₹8,779 crore)— have been recommended by the State government. It is now under the active consideration of the Government of India, he added.
The detailed project reports (DPR) for these extension projects were forwarded last year to the Centre and was recently reviewed by the Network Planning Group (NPG). Sources said these projects need to receive the nod from the NITI Aayog, Public Investment Board, and finally from the Union Cabinet.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in