Chennai plans 3.2-km pedestrian corridor between Velachery, Taramani MRTS stations

Greater Chennai Corporation has floated a Rs 14.44-crore tender to develop a 3.2-km pedestrian plaza along Perungudi MRTS Station Road, aiming to make walking safer and more accessible between key transit points in the area.

The proposed pedestrian corridor will connect Velachery and Taramani MRTS stations, creating a continuous walking route and improving last-mile connectivity for commuters using the suburban rail network.

As per the tender, the corridor will pass through division 177 in zone 13 and division 182 in zone 14, covering a critical stretch of Perungudi MRTS Station Road.

The project will be implemented under the World Bank-funded Chennai City Partnership Project as part of the Complete Streets programme, which focuses on enhancing pedestrian infrastructure and non-motorised transport.

Officials said the design will include continuous, barrier-free pedestrian walkways along the entire stretch, ensuring easier and safer movement for people travelling between stations and nearby neighbourhoods.

The corridor will feature urban design elements such as seating spaces and landscaped areas, aimed at improving the overall walking experience along the stretch.

Residents welcomed the project but raised concerns over parking and hawkers. They stressed the need for proper parking slots, restrictions on encroachments, and effective solid waste management to maintain the corridor.