Chennai Metro’s Newest Link: Porur to Vadapalani Trials Begin

Chennai Metro Rail (CMRL) conducted a trial run on January 11, 2026, along a 5.5 km stretch from Porur Junction to Vadapalani, which includes a double-decker line.

The trial is part of efforts to extend Metro services to Vadapalani, reducing travel time for commuters between Poonamallee and Vadapalani to approximately 30 minutes by February. During the test, the train ran at 15 km/h, with speeds expected to increase to 45–50 km/h in the coming weeks. CMRL Managing Director MA Siddique stated, “Trains will operate normally between Poonamallee and Porur with all stops. The next stop after Porur will be Vadapalani.”

Initially, the service will operate with driver-operated trains, with plans to transition to driverless operations in the future. Full commercial services are expected to commence by mid-February, subject to safety clearances.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.