Chennai Metro Phase 2: Marutham TBM Breaks Through at Villivakkam
TBM Marutham completed a 601-metre tunnel drive to Villivakkam Bus Terminus Metro Station despite working below five railway tracks.
TBM Marutham completed a 601-metre tunnel drive to Villivakkam Bus Terminus Metro Station despite working below five railway tracks.
Chennai Metro Phase 2 has reached another construction milestone with the breakthrough of TBM Marutham at the north shaft of Villivakkam Bus Terminus Metro Station. The machine began its drive from Villivakkam Railway Metro Station on April 24, 2026 and covered 601 metres.
The work was carried out in a challenging urban environment. The tunnel passed below five active railway tracks at Villivakkam Railway Station, while additional ground protection was required in a densely populated residential area. CMRL said the breakthrough was completed without disruption to the public or ongoing traffic.
The update relates to Corridor 5, which is planned as a 47-km corridor. The underground package includes five stations, two ramps and 7.88 km of single-tunnel work, giving commuters a clearer view of the engineering progress behind the Chennai Metro Phase 2 expansion.