Chennai Metro plans 500m-radius multimodal hubs to boost last-mile connectivity

Chennai Metro Rail Limited plans to redesign areas around 41 metro stations, turning them into integrated multimodal hubs. A tender has been floated to prepare a DPR, covering a 500m radius around each station to improve connectivity and commuter experience.

The redesign aims to make switching between transport modes smoother by integrating metro with buses, autos, taxis and suburban rail. The move is expected to address long-standing last-mile connectivity issues faced by daily commuters.

The move comes amid complaints of poor pedestrian access, unsafe crossings and lack of coordination between metro, MTC buses, MRTS and suburban rail, which currently make travel inconvenient for users. (AI image)

The agency has floated a tender to prepare a detailed project report, signalling the start of groundwork for the redesign. The DPR will guide planning, execution and infrastructure upgrades across the identified station zones. (AI image)

Plans include continuous footpaths, shaded walkways, skywalk extensions and barrier-free access. These infrastructure additions will require on-ground construction to improve safety and accessibility for pedestrians.

Designated pick-up and drop-off zones, feeder services and improved access for autos and taxis are proposed. Bus stops may be relocated closer to station entrances to reduce walking distance and ease transfers.

Experts say the redesign reflects a long-overdue shift towards treating metro stations as part of a larger mobility network. Integration was part of the original Phase 1 vision but remained unimplemented due to coordination issues.

All 41 stations, including key nodes like Central, Egmore, Guindy, Saidapet and Alandur, have been identified for redesign. High footfall areas such as Guindy may see extensive upgrade works to ease congestion.