Vadapalani phase 2 metro may open with longer walks, multiple level changes

Chennai: When the first stretch of phase-2 metro from Poonamallee Bypass to Vadapalani opens, passengers accessing the Vadapalani station may have to brace for longer walks and multiple level changes, as independent entry and exit points are unlikely to be ready initially. The phase-2 station was built on Arcot Road, while the existing phase-1 station stands on 100-Feet Road. The two are linked by a skywalk. In the absence of a dedicated ground-level entry for phase-2, commuters may have to enter or exit through the phase-1 station and climb up to reach the new platforms. A separate staircase is being constructed near the Vadapalani police station, but officials said it will not be operational at the time of commissioning. Even if it opens later, commuters may have to climb steep flights of stairs to reach the first retail level and then ascend two additional levels to access the concourse and platforms. R Prakash, a Vadapalani resident who plans to travel towards Porur said, "If we must walk across the skywalk and then climb multiple levels just to board a train, it defeats the purpose of convenience. Elderly people, those with knee problems, and those carrying luggage will struggle. Metro should make travel easier, not more tiring."