Chennai Metro Rail is set to commence tunneling work at Panagal Park as part of the Phase II expansion project. The upcoming launch of the ‘Pelican’ tunnel boring machine (TBM) marks the beginning of the underground network creation between T. Nagar and Kodambakkam, covering a distance of approximately 2 km. The Panagal Park Metro Rail station, situated in corridor 4 of the 116-km Phase II project, is an underground station connecting Poonamallee and Light House.
The tunnelling work will involve drilling at depths ranging from 20 to 25 meters, with expectations to complete the project within a year. The geotechnical investigation indicates a predominantly clay soil composition with some sandy soil and occasional rocks. During the tunneling process beneath the Kodambakkam suburban station’s railway track, precautions will be taken to minimize disruptions and vibrations, ensuring uninterrupted services. The deployment of the Pelican TBM signifies a significant milestone in advancing Chennai’s metro infrastructure.