Chennai: The multi-thousand crore takeover of the 19-km elevated MRTS rail network by metro rail is hanging fire since Dec 2025, with Railway Board yet to give its nod to the game-changing proposal.On its part, CMRL has begun assessing the 31-year-old network and surveyed all MRTS stations from Beach to Velachery to evaluate the condition of platforms, lighting, parking, ticket counters, drinking water and toilets for renovation.CMRL and Cumta (Chennai Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority) have also surveyed stations such as Thiruvallikeni, Thirumayilai and Thiruvanmiyur to identify spaces for commercial development. CUMTA has completed a corridor-wide assessment.The proposal, which is estimated to cost about Rs4,200 crore, comes amid growing commuter complaints over decades of neglect, including non-functional lifts and escalators, poor lighting, inadequate fans, locked or unusable toilets, lack of drinking water facilities, and safety concerns.So, how long is it going to take, and what is in it for commuters?Cumta top brass feel the approval is less than a month away. “We are expecting it in three to four weeks after which Southern Railway and state govt will sign an MoU. The takeover might take a while more,” said a Cumta official.The MoU will see the transfer of MRTS assets, including tracks, signalling systems, overhead electrification, buildings, land and rolling stock, to state govt. Southern Railway will continue operations and maintenance for two years before CMRL assumes full control.The change of hands promises a better lit MRTS stations, an improved parking, tighter security, cleaner premises and an almost hassle-free commute. “Once the takeover is complete, we will call for consultancy tenders to renovate all MRTS station structures,” a CMRL official said. Officials added that AC trains were also planned, though procurement could take around two years.Nevertheless, a spot visit by TOI found poorly maintained stations, non-functional escalators, inadequate ventilation and stray dogs at several locations.And, Anand V, a retired accountant, said the corridor deserved far better. “These stations occupy prime real estate but have been neglected for years. I hope the CMRL takeover finally transforms them into clean, safe and vibrant public spaces,” he said.
