New Delhi, 19 May (H.S.): Indian Railways has approved the Arakkonam–Chengalpattu doubling project (68 km) in Southern Railway at an estimated cost of ₹993 crore. The project aims to reduce congestion on the Chennai suburban rail network, improve passenger amenities, and strengthen freight movement.

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said the project will play a key role in easing crowding on Chennai’s busy suburban network, improving train punctuality, and enhancing operational efficiency. The work will bolster both passenger services and freight operations, benefiting the transportation of key commodities such as cement, automobiles, grains, iron, and steel.

The section forms an important part of Chennai’s suburban circular rail network that connects Chennai Beach, Tambaram, Chengalpattu, and Arakkonam. The existing single line is currently operating beyond its optimal capacity, and with traffic expected to increase in the coming years, additional rail infrastructure was considered necessary.

According to the Ministry of Railways, once doubling is complete, train dwell times will be reduced, punctuality will improve, and suburban service frequency can be increased.

The route links major industrial and economic centres such as Mahindra World City, Sriperumbudur, Oragadam, and Irungattukottai. It is also critical for the automobile, cement, and manufacturing industries. The proposed Perundurai airport near Kanchipuram lies close to this corridor, further enhancing its strategic importance.

The railways said the project will improve suburban and freight connectivity, promote regional industrial development, and provide passengers with faster, safer, and more reliable rail services.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar