Southern Railway awaits state approval to extend MRTS platforms for 12-car EMUs

Southern Railway is awaiting state government approval to extend platforms on the Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS) section between Chennai Beach and Velachery to accommodate 12-car electrical multiple units (EMUs).

Currently, some MRTS stations can only handle nine-car rakes, limiting the operation of longer trains. The extension is part of Southern Railway's broader plan to convert all suburban trains into 12-car EMUs, which will "afford flexibility to operate trains across multiple sections, helping improve efficiency and connectivity," according to officials.

The MRTS corridor, constructed as an elevated track over the Buckingham Canal, presents a unique advantage: "land acquisition will not be necessary to increase platform length," easing the expansion process. However, the project requires sanction from the State government before proceeding.

This upgrade aims to standardize train lengths across the suburban network, enhancing passenger capacity and operational consistency. The move reflects Southern Railway's commitment to modernizing infrastructure and improving commuter experience in Chennai's rapidly growing urban transit system.

Key quotes:
"The operation of 12-car EMUs affords Southern Railway the flexibility to operate trains across multiple sections, helping improve efficiency and connectivity."
"Since the MRTS section was built as an elevated corridor over the Buckingham Canal, land acquisition will not be necessary to increase platform length, though the State government needed to give the sanction."

Stats:
- Current MRTS stations accommodate only nine-car rakes.
- Plan to convert all suburban trains into 12-car EMUs.

The project is poised to significantly enhance the capacity and efficiency of Chennai's suburban rail network once state approval is granted.

Southern Railway seeks state approval to extend MRTS platforms between Chennai Beach and Velachery to accommodate 12-car EMUs, enhancing operational efficiency. The elevated corridor design over Buckingham Canal negates land acquisition needs, aligning with plans to convert all suburban trains to 12-car rakes for better connectivity.