NE INFRASTRUCTURE BUREAU
CHENNAI, MAR 3
In a crucial step towards operational readiness, Shri Janak Kumar Garg, Chief Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS), New Delhi, will conduct a statutory inspection of the newly constructed Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS) Up and Down Lines between Velachery and St. Thomas Mount in Chennai Division on March 5, 2026 (Thursday).
🚨Velachery-Mount MRTS section moves one step closer to inauguration, Commissioner of Railway Safety to hold statutory inspection on March 5!!
pic.twitter.com/8Q4A0YdvPy— Chennai Updates (@UpdatesChennai) March 3, 2026
The inspection, mandated under railway safety norms prior to passenger operations, will assess track geometry, signalling systems, overhead electrification, structural integrity and compliance with safety standards.
- Statutory Inspection of Newly Built Up & Down Lines on March 5
- High-Speed Trial Run Scheduled Between 13:30 hrs and 18:00 hrs
- Public Cautioned Against Trespassing on Railway Tracks During Testing
High-Speed Trial to Test Operational Stability
Following the inspection, the CRS will also oversee a high-speed trial run on the Velachery–St. Thomas Mount section between 13:30 hrs and 18:00 hrs on the same day.
An official from the Chennai Division said, “The statutory inspection by the Chief Commissioner of Railway Safety is a mandatory and critical exercise before commissioning any new railway section. It ensures that all infrastructure parameters meet prescribed safety benchmarks.”
The official added, “The high-speed trial run is conducted to evaluate track stability, ride comfort, braking performance and overall system reliability under maximum permissible speeds.”
Public Advisory Issued
Railway authorities have issued a strong caution to the public.
“All users of railway lines between Velachery and St. Thomas Mount stations are hereby cautioned not to approach or trespass on the railway tracks during the inspection and trial period,” a railway spokesperson reiterated.
Trespassing during high-speed trials poses serious safety risks, officials warned, urging residents and commuters in the vicinity to strictly adhere to safety advisories.
Boost to Chennai’s Suburban Connectivity
The Velachery–St. Thomas Mount MRTS link is expected to significantly enhance suburban rail connectivity in Chennai, improving last-mile access and easing congestion across key transit corridors. The stretch will also facilitate better integration with other suburban and metro networks in the city once operational clearances are granted.
The inspection by the CRS is the final regulatory step before formal commissioning, marking a significant milestone in strengthening Chennai’s urban rail infrastructure.
