All you need to know about Coimbatore Metro

Coimbatore, also known as the "Manchester of South India," is a bustling city located in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. With a rich cultural heritage and a thriving economy, also known as Kovai, it is one of the fastest growing cities in India. The city is well-known for its textile industry, but it is also home to a number of IT companies, engineering firms, and educational institutions.

Coimbatore's infrastructure has been rapidly developing in recent years, with the city's metro system being one of the most notable examples. The Coimbatore metro is a modern, efficient, and convenient mode of transportation that has made life easier for the city's residents.

The Coimbatore Metro project is expected to revolutionize the city's transportation system, making it easier for people to commute and fostering economic growth. The city is an ideal destination for those looking to experience traditional South Indian culture with a modern twist.

Coimbatore Metro: Planning

Coimbatore Metro will also be known as Kovai Metro, is one of the rapid city transportation modes to be produced for the upcoming smart city of Coimbatore.

The metro rail project was officially announced in the year (fiscal) 2017-2018. The Metro was aimed to connect the major transport and transit hubs of Coimbatore to ease travel within the city. The reputed engineer, E Sreedharan, popularly known as the Metro Man of India, had surveyed the region and stated that it is suitable for building a metro rail system.

Suresh Prabhu, the railway minister, has announced that the central government is all set to fund the project.

As of now, the Coimbatore metro rail project will be developed into three phases that connect the major points of the city. The DPR prepared for the project by Chennai Metro Rail Limited has estimated the cost to be Rs 9424 crores and is expected to be ready by January 2027. It would cover a distance of 138.9 km in these three phases.

The excitement grows as Coimbatore readies itself for a swift journey into the future of intelligent and interconnected transportation.

The key points to be connected under Metro are as follows.

• Coimbatore Railway station
• Podanur Railway station
• Ukkadam
• Vellalore Bus Terminus
• Coimbatore Airport

Coimbatore Metro: Metro Routes & Proposed Corridors

Coimbatore Metro Rail will be divided into five distinct lines, which are Red Line, Yellow Line, Blue Line, Green Line, and Pink Line.

1) Red Line: Red Line of Coimbatore Metro will be 29 km long. The rail starts from Ukkadam Bus Terminus to Karumathampatti, covering regions like Coimbatore Junction, Peelamedu, and Coimbatore International Airport. This tactically planned route not only connects major transportation hubs but also serves as a lifeline for commuters, linking essential aspects of daily living.

2) Yellow Line: Yellow Line of Coimbatore Metro will be 24 km long. The rail starts from Ukkadam Bus Terminus to Bilichi covers regions like Mettupalayam Road, Saibaba Colony Bus Terminus, Thudiyalur, etc. Prepare for a seamless and efficient commuting experience that goes beyond the ordinary, connecting different neighbourhoods and enhancing urban mobility.

3) Pink Line: Pink Line of Coimbatore Metro will be 8 km long. The rail starts from Ukkadam Bus Terminus to Coimbatore Integrated Bus Terminus, covering regions like Chettipalayam Road and Podanur Junction. The Pink Line emerges as a vibrant thread weaving through the city's fabric, offering a new dimension to interconnectedness and efficiency in transportation.

4) Green Line: Green Line of Coimbatore Metro will be 44 km long. The rail starts from Karunya Nagar to Ganeshapuram, covering regions like Siruvani Road, Sathy Road, Perur, Gandhipuram Central Bus Terminus, Saravanampatti, etc. This comprehensive network assures redefining urban commuting, offering convenience and accessibility across diverse neighbourhoods

5) Blue Line: Blue Line of Coimbatore Metro will be 42 km long. The rail starts from Karanampettai to Thaneerpandal, covering regions like Trichy Road, Thadagam Road, Singanallur Bus Terminus, Ukkadam Bus Terminus, etc.

Coimbatore Metro: The Future

Coimbatore Metro Rail is being cheered by the denizens of the city though there are some criticisms as well. The Coimbatore Metro project will not only improve the city's transportation infrastructure but also boost its economic growth. The Metro is expected to reduce traffic congestion and air pollution, making the city more livable. Additionally, the project will provide employment opportunities, both during the construction and operation phases.

The government's focus on developing the metro system is a clear indication of the city's potential for growth and development. With the successful implementation of the project, Coimbatore has the potential to become a leading city in South India, attracting more investments and business. The thoughtfully planned extension of the metro network is poised to elevate the city's profile, making it an attractive hub for increased investments, business opportunities, and overall economic well-being.

The Coimbatore Metro project is gaining momentum! Here's a breakdown of the latest developments:

• Focus on Avinashi & Sathy Roads: The first phase focuses on creating a critical east-west corridor between Avinashi Road and Sathyamangalam Road. This initial length will be roughly 71 kilometers long, considerably boosting the connection between these two vital sectors of Coimbatore. Recognizing the project's importance, the Tamil Nadu government allocated a budget of around ₹9000 crore in the 2023-24 budget. This considerable expenditure demonstrates the government's determination to expedite the completion of this key metro route.

• Detailed Project Report Submitted: In 2023, the Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) submitted a Detailed Project Report (DPR) to the Tamil Nadu government, marking a key step forward for the Coimbatore Metro project. This extensive document acts as a roadmap for the project, thoroughly assessing its feasibility. It goes into technical aspects such as station sites, engineering needs, and rolling stock standards. Furthermore, the DPR provides essential cost estimates, allowing the government to make informed choices on project viability and budgeting. With the DPR in place, the Coimbatore Metro project is getting closer to being a reality.

• Shift Towards Low Capacity Metro: In order to expedite the Coimbatore Metro project and minimize total expenses, CMRL is looking into establishing a low-capacity metro system. This change in design could have a substantial influence on the project's timeline and financial feasibility. A low-capacity metro often has smaller trains and stations, which can streamline construction and reduce operating expenses. This strategy could alleviate worries about initial investment costs and speed up the implementation of a much-needed public transportation option for Coimbatore.

Read our blog on major metro cities in india.

As the metro lines crisscross through the city, they represent not just connectivity but the assurance of a brighter, more sustainable future for Coimbatore.

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