Tamil Nadu Leaders Push for Federal Clearance of Coimbatore Metro Rail Network

Regional Leaders Demand Action on Mass Transit Proposals

Political representatives from various factions in Tamil Nadu have voiced their concern over the Union government's decision to return detailed project reports (DPR) for urban rail systems in Coimbatore and Madurai. On July 29, former MLA Vanathi Srinivasan emphasized that the state government must now align its submission with the latest Comprehensive Mobility Plan. She noted that current population data for both the urban conglomeration and local planning areas must be central to any revised document.

Project Scope and Industrial Necessity

The industrial sector continues to lobby for the network, citing its necessity for city expansion. Former Minister S.P. Velumani highlighted the historical context of the project, noting that the late J. Jayalalithaa first authorized the initiative with an initial budget of ₹3 crore. The original AIADMK administration vision extended far beyond the city center, aiming to link Coimbatore with Mettupalayam and Madukkarai. Current proposals from Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) include:

• A projected investment of ₹10,740 crore for the district.
• Designed routes along the high-traffic Sathyamangalam and Avinashi roads.
• Strategic connectivity to support the city's manufacturing and industrial output.

Criteria for Infrastructure Funding

While the Chennai Metro Phase II remains a recipient of federal support, Srinivasan pointed out that Coimbatore must meet specific national metro policy metrics to secure similar funding. The Union government maintains that approval is contingent on meeting technical and demographic benchmarks. Local leaders contend that the regional industrial contribution justifies the federal investment required to modernize the city's transit systems.

Source: The Hindu — News