PM Modi emphasized that the project will enhance "ease of living" by easing traffic, improving sustainability, and promoting economic growth.

In a post on X, PM Modi said, "Boosting 'Ease of Living' in a vibrant city! I congratulate the people of Chennai and Tamil Nadu on the Cabinet's approval of the Chennai Metro Rail Project Phase-II."

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin also expressed his gratitude to PM Modi, stating that the approval came in response to a request he made during their last meeting.

"Thank you, PM Narendra Modi, for accepting our request... and approving the second phase of the Chennai Metro Rail Project. This long-pending demand of the people of Tamil Nadu... we are confident of completing the project at the earliest!" Stalin said.

According to the official release, the Phase-II project will span 118.9 km with 128 stations, at a total cost of Rs 63,246 crore. Completion is slated for 2027, expanding Chennai’s metro network to 173 km.

The project includes three corridors: Madhavaram to SIPCOT (45.8 km), Lighthouse to Poonamalle Bypass (26.1 km), and Madhavaram to Sholinganallur (47 km).

The extension aims to connect rapidly developing areas like Sholinganallur and the city’s bustling IT corridor. Once operational, Phase-II is expected to significantly reduce traffic congestion, especially on key routes, improving travel times, road safety, and easing the burden on Chennai’s transport infrastructure.