Chennai’s New Mega Curve Over Kathipara Set to Redefine Metro Ride on Phase II Corridor

Chennai Metro’s Phase II will feature its most striking bend yet, a sweeping 413m stretch over Kathipara that gives travellers a striking aerial view as trains glide toward Alandur, creating a rare blend of engineering and sightseeing in daily transit.
(Picture credit: Shankar Lattur)

The upcoming alignment on Corridor 5 includes a tight 125m-radius curve, allowing trains to swing smoothly above major roads while maintaining balance and speed through a carefully engineered elevated path.

Metro coaches will move from nearly 33m down to 27m as they approach Alandur, keeping a steady 35kmph thanks to a meticulously built balanced-cantilever structure designed to handle steep vertical transitions.

The sweeping viaduct includes five major spans, each extending dozens of metres, and the longest 100m segment between two pillars is almost finished, showing steady advancement in the massive overhead system.

Two projecting arms over Kathipara are nearing their joining point, with only a small gap left to be sealed using suspended shuttering methods, helping workers complete the link without needing ground-based platforms.

Teams are installing ten precision-made pieces on each cantilever arm using four travelling form units, ensuring each segment aligns perfectly before tensioned steel strands lock everything firmly into place.

After linking the two arms, engineers begin a second phase of cable stressing to enhance structural strength, making sure the entire elevated curve remains secure under the dynamic forces of moving trains.

Officials project that the dramatic curve will be fully ready by February, marking a major leap for Phase II and adding a unique spectacle for passengers who will experience rare metropolitan views.