Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has floated a tender to carry out a feasibility study for launching high-speed rail services in Tamil Nadu. These proposed services would allow trains to run at speeds of up to 160 kmph.
Proposed Corridors
The study will evaluate three key high-speed corridors:
- Chennai – Chengalpattu – Tindivanam – Villupuram (167 km)
- Chennai – Kanchipuram – Vellore (120 km)
- Coimbatore – Tiruppur – Erode – Salem (185 km)
These routes aim to improve regional connectivity and reduce travel time across important districts.
Report Scope and Objectives
The private agency selected through the tender will be tasked with preparing a Detailed Project Report (DPR). The report will include:
- Cost estimates
- Suggested station locations
- Passenger traffic projections
- Operational feasibility
- Economic impact
- Possible funding structures
Once prepared, the report will be reviewed by CMRL, revised if needed, and submitted to the Tamil Nadu state government.
Budget Push and Future Funding
This initiative follows Tamil Nadu’s 2025–26 state budget, which proposed expanding rail infrastructure with high-speed services. The state government is likely to seek financial assistance from the World Bank and the Union government to support implementation.
This marks a significant step toward enhancing transportation infrastructure in Tamil Nadu with faster intercity train options.
