Chennai, Oct 2026 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay on Sunday flagged off the first train on the Chennai Metro Rail Phase 2 network at Porur Bypass Road Metro station, marking a significant step in expanding the city’s public transportation infrastructure.
The inauguration coincided with PM Modi’s first visit to Chennai since the Vijay government assumed office in Tamil Nadu. During the visit, the Prime Minister also launched and dedicated infrastructure projects across the highway, railway and maritime sectors, with investments running into thousands of crores of rupees.
PM Modi arrived at Chennai airport earlier in the day, where he was received by Governor Rajendra Arlekar, Chief Minister Vijay and other dignitaries. AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami, BJP leader Nainar Nagenthran, ministers and other political leaders were also present.
The Prime Minister and the Chief Minister subsequently reached Porur Bypass Road Metro station, where they inspected the facilities and interacted with officials before flagging off the inaugural service.
During the visit, Modi sought detailed briefings on the Metro network, its operational arrangements and the facilities developed for commuters. The newly constructed Poonamallee-Vadapalani corridor has been developed at a cost of Rs 750 crore. The initial phase of services on the route will cover 11 stations, improving connectivity for commuters travelling through the western parts of Chennai.
Before boarding the inaugural train, the Prime Minister purchased a ticket using the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), highlighting the availability of digital payment facilities. He then travelled from Porur Bypass Road Metro station to Poonamallee alongside Chief Minister Vijay.
Officials briefed the two leaders on the Metro system’s operations and the new service during the journey. Modi also interacted with students and workers travelling aboard the train.
Apart from the Metro inauguration, the Prime Minister’s programme included major road and railway infrastructure initiatives. He laid foundation stones for national highway projects and inaugurated completed works with a combined value of Rs 3,700 crore. These projects are expected to strengthen road connectivity and improve transport infrastructure in the state.
Modi also dedicated railway infrastructure projects worth Rs 750 crore to the nation.
At Chennai Port, the Prime Minister inaugurated four infrastructure projects aimed at strengthening maritime facilities and enhancing cargo-handling capacity.
The Metro launch and other infrastructure initiatives formed a key part of the Centre’s efforts to expand transport connectivity in Tamil Nadu. Extensive security arrangements were put in place across Chennai during the Prime Minister’s visit.
