The Tamil Nadu Government has approved the construction of the Chennai Metro Project’s Line 4 Extension, covering 52.94 km and connecting Poonamallee, Sunguvarchatram, and Parador. The project, estimated to cost ₹15,906 crore, will be implemented in two phases. The first phase will feature 14 stations. The Tamil Nadu government has officially approved the extension of Line 4 under the ambitious Chennai Metro Phase 2 project, marking a significant step forward in enhancing the city’s urban transit connectivity. This strategic extension aims to cater to growing suburban demand, decongest city roads, and promote sustainable mobility across the southern parts of the city.
Overview of Line 4 and the Approved Extension
Line 4 in Phase 2 originally spans from Lighthouse to Poonamallee Bypass, covering key areas in west Chennai. With the newly approved extension, the corridor will now stretch further beyond Poonamallee Bypass to Parador, which is also the proposed site for the Chennai Greenfield International Airport. The extension adds around 20.6 km to the line, significantly enhancing its reach. by the (Airports Authority of India AAI). The connection is expected to support airport-bound commuters, enhance logistics, and create a direct urban-airport transit option.
Impact on Connectivity and Development
The extended Line 4 corridor will play a transformative role in boosting accessibility to the western and southwestern suburbs of Chennai. It will directly benefit areas like Nazarathpet, Thirumazhisai, and Sriperumbudur, which are poised to become key residential and industrial hubs. By linking these zones to central Chennai, the extension will offer faster commutes, reduce private vehicle dependence, and support transit-oriented development. It will also serve thousands of daily commuters working in the industrial belt and those expected to use the new airport. (Kochi Metro)
Funding and Project Execution
The estimated cost of the Line 4 extension is projected at over ₹10,000 crore, and funding is expected to come from a mix of state government budget allocations, central assistance, and international agencies such as ADB or AIIB. The Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL), which is implementing the entire Phase 2 project, is expected to issue tenders for this extension in the upcoming quarters. Land acquisition, environmental assessments, and public consultations are likely to begin soon, ensuring that early groundwork is laid by 2026.
Integration with Future Infrastructure
One of the key advantages of this extension is its integration potential with the Chennai Greenfield Airport, proposed at Parador. The metro connectivity will ensure seamless passenger movement between the airport and core city locations. It will also boost the airport’s viability and reduce surface traffic pressure. In addition, CMRL is planning to integrate Line 4 with suburban rail, bus terminals, and feeder systems, making it a core component of Chennai’s multimodal transport strategy.
Strategic Vision Behind the Extension
The Line 4 extension aligns with Tamil Nadu’s broader Vision 2030 for infrastructure and mobility. The government aims to build Chennai into a global city with seamless urban transport, and this metro corridor is a key enabler. By extending connectivity beyond urban limits, it will act as a catalyst for economic decentralization, encouraging growth in outer zones and relieving pressure on central business districts. Notably, Thirumazhisai Satellite Township—a government-planned smart residential and commercial hub—is one of the major beneficiaries of this extension. The metro line will make this area more attractive to real estate developers, investors, and new residents.
Conclusion
With the Tamil Nadu government’s nod for Line 4 extension, Chennai Metro Phase 2 takes a bold leap toward inclusive urban growth and long-term sustainability. The corridor is expected to unlock massive developmental potential and establish a robust link between the expanding city and its upcoming international gateway.
Q1. What is the new Chennai Metro Line 4 extension?
It’s an extension from Poonamallee Bypass to Parador, covering ~20.6 km.
Q2. Why is this extension important?
It connects Chennai city to the proposed Parador Greenfield Airport.
Q3. How many Kilometres will Line 4 cover after the extension?
Approximately 47 km in total.
Q4. Who is executing the project?
The project is managed by Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL).
Q5. When will construction begin?
Construction is expected to start after land acquisition and tender approvals in the coming years.
