1. Introduction to Chennai Metro Rail
Chennai Metro Rail, operational since 2015, is a rapid transit system transforming urban mobility in Tamil Nadu’s capital. Spanning 54.1 km across 2 corridors, it connects major hubs like Chennai Central, Airport, and IT Corridors, easing traffic congestion in the bustling city.
Key Highlights
✔ First metro in South India to integrate with suburban rail
✔ 2 operational lines (Blue & Green) with 41 stations
✔ Daily ridership: ~180,000 passengers (as of 2025)
✔ 100% solar-powered stations (eco-friendly initiative)
✔ Free Wi-Fi & charging ports at all stations
2. Chennai Metro Timings and Guidelines
Metro Timings:
- Weekdays (Monday – Friday): 05:00 hrs – 23:00 hrs
- Saturday: 05:00 hrs – 23:00 hrs
- Sunday / Holidays: 05:00 hrs – 23:00 hrs
Chennai Metro is your trusted travel companion, every step of the way.#chennaimetro #millionrides #greenmetro #sustainability #travel #chennai #metrorail #cmrl pic.twitter.com/XDZKL9lbfh
— Chennai Metro Rail (@cmrlofficial) June 6, 2025
Train Frequencies:
Corridor-1 (Blue Line) – Wimco Nagar Depot ⇔ Airport
Weekdays & Saturday:
- First Train:
- From Airport – 04:51 hrs
- From Wimco Nagar Depot – 04:56 hrs
- Last Train:
- From Airport – 23:00 hrs
- From Wimco Nagar Depot – 23:00 hrs
- Frequency:
- Peak Hours (08:00–11:00 & 17:00–20:00): Every 6 mins
- Non-Peak Hours (05:00–08:00, 11:00–17:00, 20:00–22:00): Every 7 mins
- Late Night (22:00–23:00): Every 15 mins
Sunday / Holidays:
- First Train:
- From Airport – 05:02 hrs
- From Wimco Nagar Depot – 05:03 hrs
- Last Train:
- From Airport – 23:00 hrs
- From Wimco Nagar Depot – 23:00 hrs
- Frequency:
- Peak Hours (12:00–20:00): Every 7 mins
- Non-Peak Hours (05:00–12:00, 20:00–22:00): Every 10 mins
- Late Night (22:00–23:00): Every 15 mins
3. Chennai Metro Map & Route Planner
Interactive Metro Map
The Chennai Metro network spans 2 major corridors:
| Corridor | Route | Key Stations |
|---|---|---|
| Blue Line | Wimco Nagar ↔ Airport | Chennai Central, Egmore, Alandur |
| Green Line | Central ↔ St. Thomas Mount | Vadapalani, Guindy, Little Mount |
📌 Download Map: Chennai Metro Official Route Map
Interchange Stations
- Chennai Central (connects to suburban trains)
- Alandur (Blue & Green Line interchange)
- St. Thomas Mount (metro & suburban rail integration)
4. Chennai Metro Lines & Key Stations
A. Blue Line (Wimco Nagar ↔ Airport)
- Key Stations:
- Chennai Central (major railway link)
- Egmore (near Chennai Museum)
- Airport (T1 & T2 connectivity)
B. Green Line (Central ↔ St. Thomas Mount)
- Key Stations:
- Vadapalani (near Kapaleeshwarar Temple)
- Guindy (business district)
- Little Mount (tourist-friendly area)
5. Chennai Metro Rail Fare Guide (2025)
Fare Structure (Single Journey Token – SJT)
- Minimum Fare: ₹10
- Maximum Fare: ₹50
Key Fare Examples:
| From → To | Fare (₹) |
|---|---|
| Airport → Central Metro | ₹50 |
| Central Metro → St. Thomas Mount | ₹40 |
| Alandur → Guindy | ₹10 |
| Koyambedu → Egmore | ₹40 |
| Washermenpet → Tondiarpet | ₹10 |
How to Check Your Fare:
- Find your station in the leftmost column of the official fare chart.
- Match your destination station to see the exact fare.
Important Notes:
- Fares are fixed regardless of peak/non-peak hours.
- Smart Cards offer discounts on return journeys.
- Children below 90 cm travel free.
For the full fare matrix, visit: CMRL Official Website.
7. Top Tips for First-Time Metro Travelers
✅ Avoid Peak Hours: 8:00–10:30 AM & 5:00–8:00 PM
✅ Use Travel Cards for faster entry & discounts
✅ Ladies’ Coach available in every train
✅ Free Wi-Fi at all stations
✅ Feeder Buses: Connects to last-mile destinations
8. Future Expansions: Chennai Metro Phase 2
Upcoming Routes (2027–2030 Target)
- Madhavaram ↔ Siruseri (52 km)
- Light House ↔ Poonamallee (16 km)
- Airport ↔ Kilambakkam (30 km)
💰 Project Cost: ₹63,246 crore (approved by Tamil Nadu govt)
9. Why Choose Chennai Metro?
✔ Punctual & efficient service
✔ Affordable fares compared to cabs/autos
✔ Air-conditioned coaches (comfort in Chennai heat)
✔ Seamless integration with buses & trains
10. Do’s and Don’ts in Chennai Metro
Do’s:
✅ Stand in queue while boarding.
✅ Limit baggage to 25 kg (max size: 80 cm × 50 cm × 30 cm).
✅ Stand on the left side of escalators.
✅ Move away from escalators immediately after use.
✅ Show tickets/tokens to metro staff when asked.
✅ Take care of your valuables.
✅ Offer seats to pregnant women, elderly, and passengers with infants.
✅ Use dustbins; keep stations clean.
✅ Make way for physically challenged passengers.
✅ Contact Station Controller/Customer Care for help.
Don’ts:
❌ Travel without a valid ticket/token.
❌ Share your metro card/token with others.
❌ Cross the yellow line on platforms.
❌ Step onto metro tracks.
❌ Jump over ticket barriers.
❌ Force open train doors.
❌ Deface metro property with posters/graffiti.
❌ Carry firearms, knives, or dangerous items.
❌ Smoke inside metro premises.
❌ Eat or drink in stations/trains.
❌ Bring pets inside metro premises.
Note: Parking is at the owner’s risk.
For official updates, check CMRL’s website or customer care.
Also Read : Hyderabad Metro Rail: Complete Guide to Timings, Routes, Tickets, and More
FAQs
✅ A: Yes, but with reduced frequency (every 15 mins).
✅ A: Yes, but limited to 15 kg per passenger.
✅ A: Use the Chennai Metro App for real-time updates.
Final Thoughts
Chennai Metro is a lifeline for daily commuters and tourists alike, offering speed, comfort, and sustainability. Whether you’re heading to work or exploring the city, this guide ensures a smooth metro experience in Chennai!
📢 Plan your trip now: Chennai Metro Official Website
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