Digi Yatra facility launched at Chennai airport

Chennai Airport embraces the future of travel with the launch of the Digi Yatra facility on June 7th, 2024. This innovative system promises a smoother, contactless experience for domestic passengers, leveraging facial recognition technology (FRT) to streamline the travel process.

What is Digi Yatra?

Digi Yatra is a government-backed initiative aimed at revolutionizing air travel in India. It utilizes facial recognition technology to eliminate the need for physical documents at various checkpoints within the airport. Passengers register beforehand, linking their facial images with their boarding pass and identity documents. Upon arrival at the airport, facial recognition cameras verify their identity, allowing them to breeze through security checks and boarding gates without needing to present physical documents.

Benefits for Passengers

The Digi Yatra system offers a multitude of advantages for passengers travelling through Chennai Airport’s domestic terminals (1 and 4). Here’s a glimpse of what passengers can expect:

• Reduced Queues: Imagine skipping long queues for security checks and boarding. Digi Yatra promises faster processing times, allowing passengers to relax and spend less time waiting.
• Contactless Convenience: In the age of hygiene awareness, Digi Yatra eliminates the need to fumble with documents, offering a more hygienic travel experience.
• Seamless Flow: With facial recognition taking care of verification, passengers can navigate the airport with ease, reducing the stress and frustration often associated with traditional travel procedures.
• Improved Efficiency: Faster passenger processing leads to improved overall airport efficiency, benefiting both passengers and airlines.

How to Use Digi Yatra

Enrolling in Digi Yatra is a simple process. Passengers can register through the Digi Yatra app or the official website of the Ministry of Civil Aviation. The registration involves providing personal details, uploading a photograph, and linking your Aadhaar card (a unique national identification number) for verification. Once registered, passengers can link their upcoming flight details with their Digi Yatra profile, creating a hassle-free travel experience.

Current Implementation

While Digi Yatra is in its initial stages of deployment, Chennai Airport marks a significant milestone. Currently, the facility is available for passengers flying on specific airlines:

Terminal 1: IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Akasa

Terminal 4: Air India, Vistara, and Air India Express

The rollout is expected to expand to include other airlines and airports gradually.

Security Concerns and Privacy Measures

The use of facial recognition technology raises concerns about data privacy and security. To address these concerns, the Digi Yatra facility adheres to strict regulations. Facial images are stored in a secure and encrypted format, and only authorized personnel have access to this data. Passengers also have the option to opt out of the program and use traditional verification methods.

The Future of Travel

The launch of Digi Yatra at Chennai Airport signifies a significant step towards a more efficient and passenger-centric future for air travel in India. As the technology matures and expands, we can expect to see seamless travel experiences not just domestically, but on international journeys as well. This innovation holds the potential to transform the way we travel, making it faster, more convenient, and secure.

Beyond the Launch

While the launch of Digi Yatra is a positive development, there are aspects to consider for its successful long-term implementation:

• Public Awareness: Educating passengers about the benefits and registration process is crucial for wider adoption.
• Inclusivity: The system should cater to individuals who may not be comfortable with facial recognition or lack access to smartphones for registration.
• Accessibility: Ensuring a smooth experience for passengers with disabilities is essential for an inclusive travel environment.

Conclusion

The Digi Yatra facility at Chennai Airport marks a promising step towards a future of smarter and more efficient air travel. With its focus on speed, convenience, and security, this technology has the potential to revolutionize the passenger experience. As the system continues to evolve and expand, we can look forward to a more seamless and enjoyable travel journey.

FAQs

How do I use Digi Yatra at the airport?

Once registered, link your upcoming flight details with your Digi Yatra profile through the app or website. Upon arrival at the airport, approach the designated Digi Yatra lanes at security checks and boarding gates. Facial recognition cameras will verify your identity, allowing you to proceed without needing to show physical documents.

Is Digi Yatra safe?

Facial images are stored securely and encrypted. Only authorized personnel have access to this data. Passengers also have the option to opt out of the program.

What if I don’t want to use Digi Yatra?

You can still travel through the airport using traditional methods. Security check lanes and boarding gates will continue to cater to passengers who prefer not to use Digi Yatra.

What happens if the facial recognition system fails?

In case of technical issues, alternate verification methods will be available at the checkpoints.

Who can benefit from Digi Yatra?

Frequent flyers and passengers who value a quick and convenient travel experience will find Digi Yatra particularly advantageous.

Will Digi Yatra work for international travel?

Currently, Digi Yatra is functional for domestic flights only. The system might expand to include international travel in the future.

I have a disability. Can I still use Digi Yatra?

The system is designed to be inclusive. If you encounter any accessibility issues, airport staff will be available to assist you.

Trichy airport operations shift to new terminal

Trichy Airport domestic and international aircraft operations will move to the new integrated terminal on Tuesday. The new terminal, which spans 75,000 square metres and was built for 1,112 crore with two levels for arrivals and departures, can accommodate 44.5 lakh passengers annually.

The new terminal will be officially commissioned on Tuesday at 6 a.m., according to P Subramani, director of Trichy Airport. The first group of passengers to arrive at the new terminal will be from an Indigo flight that is arriving at Trichy Airport at 6.40 am from Singapore. The first group of people to leave the integrated terminal will be those on an aircraft that is scheduled to depart for Bengaluru at 7:40 a.m.

All of the work needed to open the new terminal’s operations to passengers has been finished in full.

Subramani sald:

The new terminal features five baggage carousels and 104 immigration counters. 26 of the 60 arrival counters will be utilised for passengers from within the country, and 34 for those from outside. There are forty-four counters for departure. In addition, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) intends to set up 12 self-check-in kiosks. About twenty counters will be put into service right away.

There are just two x-ray baggage inspection systems—one for local operations and one for international travel—at the former terminal. There will be 15 x-ray baggage inspection systems at the new terminal, four of which will be reserved for travellers travelling within the country. The director also stated that there is no possibility of congestion inside the new terminal.

Five of the terminal’s ten aerobridges are operational right now. According to the officials, contactless scanning infrastructure may be introduced in the next phase.

VIPs have exclusive access that allows them to avoid using the passenger general spaces. Battery-powered vehicles can be recharged in the parking area. The new terminal has received a Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment (GRIHA) of four stars out of five for environmental friendliness. Prime Minister Narendra Modi broke ground on the new terminal’s construction in February 2019 and officially opened it on January 2. AAI also mentioned that they are developing a strategy to use the former terminal building for different uses.

Designed for Efficiency and Comfort

The new terminal is a testament to meticulous planning and modern design. Spread across two levels – one for arrivals and another for departures – it offers a seamless and efficient passenger journey. Here’s a glimpse into what passengers can expect:

• Increased Capacity: The new terminal boasts a significant boost in passenger handling capacity, accommodating up to 4.5 million passengers annually. This caters to the growing demand for air travel in the region and positions Trichy Airport to play a more prominent role in the national aviation network.

• Enhanced Immigration and Baggage Handling: With 104 immigration counters, the new terminal ensures faster processing times for arriving passengers. For a smoother arrival experience, 60 counters are dedicated to immigration, with a dedicated split of 26 for domestic and 34 for international passengers. Furthermore, five baggage carousels ensure efficient luggage claim.

• Improved Check-in Options: The new terminal prioritizes passenger convenience by offering a mix of traditional check-in counters and self-check-in kiosks. Plans are underway to introduce 12 self-check-in kiosks, with around 20 operational from the start. This empowers passengers to manage their check-in process efficiently, reducing queues and saving valuable time.

A Touch of Tradition

The new terminal goes beyond functionality, incorporating elements that celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu. The design incorporates local art and architecture, subtly weaving a sense of place into the passenger experience. This thoughtful touch creates a welcoming ambience for both domestic and international travellers.

A Catalyst for Growth

The inauguration of the new terminal is more than just an infrastructure upgrade; it’s a catalyst for growth. The improved facilities and increased capacity are expected to attract more airlines and potentially new routes, fostering better connectivity for the region. This, in turn, can boost tourism, trade, and overall economic development in Trichy and surrounding areas.

A Smooth Transition

The successful transition to the new terminal is a testament to the meticulous planning and collaborative efforts of the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and above all the various stakeholders involved. Extensive measures were taken to ensure a smooth handover, minimizing disruptions for passengers.

Looking Ahead

The new integrated terminal marks a significant milestone for Trichy Airport. It positions the airport to cater to the growing aviation needs of the region, offering passengers a world-class travel experience. With its focus on efficiency, comfort, and a touch of local flair, the new terminal is poised to propel Trichy further on its journey as a major aviation hub in South India.

FAQs

When did Trichy Airport switch to the new terminal?

All flight operations shifted to the new integrated terminal on June 11th, 2024.

What happened to the old terminal?

The old terminal is now being used as an international cargo complex.

Where is the new terminal located?

The new terminal is located at the same location as the previous terminals at Trichy International Airport.

What are the benefits of the new terminal?

The new terminal offers increased capacity, faster immigration processing, improved baggage handling, and also a wider range of check-in options (including self-check-in kiosks).

How many immigration counters are there in the new terminal?

There are 104 immigration counters, with dedicated sections for domestic and international arrivals.

Are there any shops or restaurants in the new terminal?

Yes, the new terminal has a variety of retail stores and restaurants available.

Will my flight depart from the new terminal?

Yes, all arriving and departing flights are now operating from the new terminal.

Parandur Airport: From Plans to Takeoff – A Confirmation Update

Is Parandur airport confirmed? Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu, is set to soar to new heights with the upcoming Parandur Airport. But with a project of this scale, whispers of “Is it confirmed?” can linger. Let’s clear the air and explore the current status of this exciting development.

From Proposals to Final Site Selection

The story of Parandur Airport began with the vision of decongesting the existing Chennai International Airport. The Tamil Nadu government, recognizing the limitations of the current facility, initiated the search for a suitable location for a greenfield airport (an airport built on undeveloped land).

Several contenders emerged, including Sriperumbudur, Madurantakam, and Parandur itself. The Airports Authority of India (AAI) conducted a thorough pre-feasibility study, evaluating factors like land acquisition costs, presence of obstacles, and overall viability.

In March 2022, AAI shortlisted Parandur and Pannur as the most promising candidates. After further evaluation, considering factors like habitation density and industrial establishments, the Tamil Nadu government confirmed Parandur as the official site in August 2022. This marked a significant milestone, solidifying Parandur’s position as the future home of Chennai’s second airport.

Securing the Green Light: Approvals and Progress

The confirmation wasn’t the final hurdle. Obtaining necessary clearances remained crucial. A critical step came in November 2023 when the Ministry of Defence granted site clearance for the Parandur Greenfield Airport project. This green light from the central government paved the way for further development.

The Tamil Nadu government has also taken proactive steps. A Special District Revenue Officer has been appointed to spearhead land acquisition, a vital process for project commencement. Additionally, a firm has been identified to prepare a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the metro line connecting Poonamallee to Parandur Airport. This dedicated metro access will ensure seamless connectivity for travellers.

Taking Flight by 2028: The Road Ahead

With key approvals in place and ongoing processes like land acquisition, the project is well on its way. The targeted completion date is set for 2028, bringing us closer to witnessing Parandur Airport become a reality.

Looking Beyond Confirmation: The Potential Impact

Parandur Airport’s significance extends beyond its confirmed status. Here’s what we can expect:

• Enhanced Connectivity: The new airport will cater to the growing air traffic in Chennai, offering more options for passengers and cargo movement.
• Economic Boost: The project is expected to generate significant employment opportunities during construction and operation. It will also attract businesses and investments to the region.
• Infrastructure Development: The construction of the airport will likely lead to the development of surrounding areas, including improved road networks and social infrastructure.

Addressing Concerns: A Balanced Approach

While the project brings promise, it’s essential to acknowledge potential concerns. Land acquisition can be a sensitive issue, and ensuring fair compensation for affected landowners is crucial. Environmental considerations also require careful attention to minimize any negative impact.

The Tamil Nadu government has expressed commitment to addressing these concerns. Transparent land acquisition processes and implementing robust environmental safeguards will be essential for building public trust and ensuring the project’s long-term success.

Conclusion: Parandur Airport – A Confirmed Vision Taking Flight

Parandur Airport has transcended the realm of proposals. With site confirmation, crucial clearances, and ongoing development, the project is well on its way to becoming a reality by 2028. This greenfield airport promises to enhance Chennai’s connectivity, boost the economy, and contribute to the region’s overall growth. As the project progresses, addressing potential social and environmental concerns will be paramount. Parandur Airport’s confirmed status marks the beginning of an exciting journey for Chennai, and its successful completion will be a testament to well-planned infrastructure development.

FAQs

When will Parandur Airport be operational?

The targeted completion date for Parandur Airport is set for 2028.

What is the current status of the project?

Land acquisition is underway, and a firm has been identified to prepare a detailed project report (DPR) for a metro line connecting to the airport.

How big will the airport be?

The Parandur Airport is planned for a massive area exceeding 5,300 acres.

Will the airport have multiple runways?

Yes, the plans call for two parallel runways to handle air traffic efficiently.

What kind of facilities will the airport have?

The airport is expected to have multiple passenger terminals, a dedicated cargo terminal, taxiways, and various passenger amenities.

How far is Parandur Airport from Chennai?

Parandur is located approximately 60 kilometres southwest of Chennai.

The new terminal at Chennai Airport will open in two years: When the new terminal at Chennai Airport is finished in two years, it will serve both domestic and international travellers. A TOI article said that the terminal is being built next to phase 1 of the integrated terminal (T2), which now handles international arrivals and departures, and on the site where the former international arrival facility stood. An Airports Authority of India official stated that the demolition work has been completed and that this month’s construction is planned to start after the contractor receives the site.

With a total area of about 60,000 square metres, the new terminal will be combined with the current T2 terminal to form a sizable integrated structure that can accommodate both domestic and international aircraft depending on demand. Two domestic terminals will be located on either side of the integrated terminal once it is completed. 

Phase 2 development of T2

It includes the construction of the new terminal. This phase will raise the integrated terminal’s overall area to 197,000 square metres and increase its annual passenger handling capacity from the present 25 million to 35 million. Depending on the needs, the terminal’s layout will be adaptable to suit both domestic and foreign travellers. When there is a surge in domestic passenger traffic, the new terminal may be used to route them, making everything run well for everyone.

Every day, the city airport welcomes about 50,000 domestic travellers, and at busy times like weekends and holidays, there is frequently a spike in demand for domestic travel. Airlines, however, find it difficult to reserve slots for more frequencies. Airlines will be able to add more flights to their timetables because of the increased terminal space.

More aerobridges for boarding and disembarking will be included in the integrated terminal when it is finished, enabling airlines to plan more international flights. A passenger flow monitoring system, e-gates, self-baggage drop, and 3D boarding sensors are just a few of the amenities that it will have. To reduce the possibility of improperly handled luggage, specialised baggage scanners and sophisticated baggage handling systems are used. 

Other news

There will be major upgrades to Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, including the extension of the international terminal and the demolition of the domestic terminal. In order to accommodate the increasing demand for flights and passenger traffic, the airport’s master plan seeks to enhance infrastructure and connections. Should the runway end safety area not be expanded by September 2024, the airport’s licence may be revoked.

Furthermore, there will be three passenger terminals at the brand-new greenfield airport near Chennai’s Parandur, divided by two runways. There will be a metro rail station near the airport, and it will be conveniently accessible via a connecting road from the Chennai-Bengaluru motorway. The Union Ministry of Environment and Forests has received the design from the state government and is awaiting clearance. 

Chennai International Airport gets sleeping pods: The sleeping pods at Chennai Airport are located next to the Mumbai Central train station. Travellers can relax for the night (or while they are en route) in these pod-rooms or pod-hotels. Here are the specifics. 

Travelling may be exhausting, even if you have reservations for overnight trains or flights that guarantee a good night’s sleep. Feeling anxious is exacerbated by the fact that you are in a new location that is changing, the need to get up early so you can disembark, and the expectation of waking up somewhere new.

Furthermore, hotels are sometimes too far away or too expensive for a few hours of peaceful sleep, and airports and train stations aren’t the most comfortable places to sleep when travelling.

To counter that, Chennai International Airport has introduced sleeping pods in the domestic terminal to provide visitors in transit with a cosy location to stay the night.

The Airports Authority of India (AAI) is said to have installed these sleeping pods, which are situated in the domestic terminal’s arrival hall. The facility, known as “Sleepzo,” will let travellers relax. It has four bed-sized capsules close to baggage belt number 1.

The space has reading lights, a USB charger, luggage space, ambient lighting, blower control, ambient light, and a soft, comfy bed. It is available for use on an hourly basis. As long as the youngster is younger than twelve, these pods can fit one adult and one child, according to a release cited by The Hindu. India, which already has several capsule hotels, is home to the newest of these establishments.

Sleeping Pods For Short Stay Passengers In Chennai

Passengers at Chennai Airport will reportedly be able to rent sleeping pods on an hourly basis. Additionally, the airport authorities hope to eventually provide the option to reserve sleeping pods in advance. These sleeping pods were designed with a traveller’s comfort and needs in mind. Examine everything that is contained in the designated area.

• Luggage Storage
• USB charger
• Comfort Bedding
• Charging Station
• Reading Lights

One adult and one child under the age of twelve can sleep in the pods. The sleeping pods were installed to provide visitors with a comfortable travel experience. It would always be preferable to go into a sleeping pod and rest if one is unable to travel to the city or make hotel reservations.

Are Sleeping Pods Comfortable?

In India, sleeping pods were never very fashionable. However, India’s tourism and travel sector is in a state of flux, improving facilities throughout with a focus on comfort and customer happiness. The market is expanding significantly, according to a report that was published earlier this month. Also referred to as nap pods, it won’t take long for them to catch on with Indian tourists.

Things To Do At Chennai Airport

These are a few activities you may do at Chennai International Airport to spice up your stories about layovers.

1. Aerohub Mall: For An All-In-All Experience: A skywalk connects the retail centre Aerohub Mall, which is housed inside the Chennai International Airport, to the terminal. The mall contains everything you need to kill time and is accessible to both travellers and the general public. 

2. Meditate at Chennai Airport’s prayer halls: This interfaith area is available to all travellers for free. You can locate a private, calm area and practise meditation there. Because it’s a public place, make sure you show respect to everyone around you.

3. Enjoy The Free Wi-Fi at The Airport: The main terminal, which includes the check-in area, security checkpoint, departure gates, lounges, restaurants, and cafes, offers free high-speed airport Wi-Fi. To use the free Wi-Fi for 45 minutes, all you need to do is sign in with your cell number and enter the OTP that was provided to your number. 

4. Conference Room For Your Rescue: Chennai Airport offers well-maintained conference rooms that are ideal for uninterrupted business meetings. Assume you work as a professional or an entrepreneur. In that instance, you can make effective use of cutting-edge conference rooms and high-speed internet access for your company, whether it is for a video conference, private meeting, or brainstorming session.

Conclusion

Chennai International Airport provides a comprehensive travel experience and is more than just a hub for transportation. The airport makes your wait comfortable and productive with tax-free stores offering retail therapy, eateries with a variety of cuisine selections, and soothing spa treatments. The Chennai Airport offers passengers on business or in need of a quiet getaway nice lounges that are kept up to date.

FAQs

Does Chennai Airport have a place to stay overnight?

If you would like to peacefully rest or sleep at Chennai Airport, there are plenty of possibilities. Airport lounges, recliners, motels, and the newly launched Sleepzo sleeping pods are among your options. Some services, on the other hand, are compensated on an hourly basis. You are welcome to enjoy the food, drinks, and Wi-Fi.

How to spend time at Chennai Airport?

In addition to shopping at the duty-free stores, you may visit the airport’s museum, have a massage or spa treatment, dine well at the airport restaurants, and utilise the free Wi-Fi for both business and personal purposes. 

Can we leave the airport when we’re on a layover in Chennai?

Yes. A layover allows you to exit Chennai Airport. It won’t be worthwhile, though, if you only have a little layover because it takes 30 minutes to get to the city centre and visit the surrounding areas. As you exit the airport, keep your boarding card, passport, and visa close at hand.

Why is Aerohub Mall the ideal location for tourists, residents, and shoppers?

Aerohub Mall’s handy position within Chennai International Airport’s grounds makes it simple for travellers to make the most of their downtime. The public can shop, enjoy delicious food and watch films in peace at the mall, which is open to the public as well.

Which tourist destinations are close to Chennai Airport?

Let’s say your travel or layover is longer than expected. If so, you can leave Chennai International Airport and visit some of the surrounding sites, including Vivekananda House, Gandhi Mandapam, Kathipara Square Park, Vandalur Zoo, and St. Thomas Mount. 

Thirunavukkarasar urges Centre to expedite Tiruchi Metro Rail project

In the Lok Sabha, the MP brought up several long-standing requests about the road and railway infrastructure in the Tiruchi Lok Sabha Constituency.

Su. Thirunavukkarasar, a member of the Congress party in the Tiruchi Lok Sabha, has presented the Centre with numerous demands concerning the railway industry and the road sector that are relevant to his Parliamentary seat. To get the Center’s attention, Mr. Thirunavukkarasar made his list of requests in the Lok Sabha on Thursday and Friday.

Mr Thirunavukkarasar demanded on Friday, under Rule 377, that the Centre construct a four-lane national highway to replace the two-lane one that runs from Tiruchi to Devipattinam via Pudukottai, Karaikudi, and Devakottai.

He pushed for the 240-kilometer state highway stretch between Thanjavur, Pudukottai, Aranthangi, Karaikudi, Kalal, Kalaarkoil, Maravamangalam, Ilayangudi, Paramakudi, Mudukulathur, and Sayalkudi to be upgraded to a national highway. He begged that the 70-kilometer length of the State highway that runs from Pudukottai to Mimisal via Aranthangi and Avudayarkoil be upgraded to national highway status. This includes Aranthangi-Nagudi-Kattumavadi and Musiri-Kulithalai-Pudukottai-Alangudi-Peravurani-Sethubavachathram. 

Speaking during Thursday’s Zero Hour, Mr Thirunavukkarasar urged the Centre to move as quickly as feasible to implement the Metro Rail service project in Tiruchi. According to him, Tiruchi city is located in Tamil Nadu’s central region. It was surrounded by a number of Central government public sector projects, such as the Ordnance Factory and BHEL. He added that Tiruchi had a large population and that there was a lot of public traffic in the area. He thus encouraged the Centre to move quickly to complete the Metro Rail service project in Tiruchi.

In addition to a daily intercity express between Tiruchi and Chennai, he asked the Railway Minister to establish daily trains from Manamadurai to Chennai via Sivaganga, Karaikudi, Aranthangi, and Peravurani. He also asked for daily trains from Tiruchi to Bengaluru and from Pudukottai to Chennai via Tiruchi. Another demand was to lay a new railway line from Thanjavur to Pudukottai. 

Tiruchirappalli International Airport update: PM Modi unveils Rs 1,100 crore state-of-the-art terminal building

The new terminal building at Tiruchirappalli International Airport in Tamil Nadu is dedicated by Prime Minister Narendra today. It is outfitted with cutting-edge amenities and will improve passenger connectivity.

The new terminal building, which cost over Rs 1,100 crore to construct, was intended to highlight Tiruchirappalli’s vibrant culture. Through its dynamic exterior facade and magnificent interiors, it will display art styles ranging from Kolam art to hues of Srirangam Temple and other theme artworks showing India’s relationship to the rest of the globe. 

The Prime Minister’s Office said in a statement that the two-story new international terminal building can accommodate more than 44 lakh passengers yearly and roughly 3,500 passengers during peak hours.

The new terminal building has 60 check-in desks, 5 baggage carousels, 60 arrival immigration counters and 44 departure emigration counters for secure and easy check-in and check-out procedures. In addition, VIP lounges and 19 X-His Machines are designed to make travelling clients’ lives easier.

Remarkably, Tiruchirappalli International Airport is Tamil Nadu’s second-biggest airport in terms of foreign passenger flow, behind Chennai. The new terminal building’s architecture naturally highlights Trichy’s cultural history.

“We have done a lot of painting works, murals. A total of 100 artists were employed and we finished the artworks in 30 days,” said Rajavignesh, Creative Director for the artworks in the terminal building.

PM to dedicate development projects of Rs 19,850 crore

On January 2 and 3, 2024, Prime Minister Modi will visit Tamil Nadu and Lakshadweep for two days. The 38th Convocation Ceremony of Bharathidasan University in Tiruchirappalli will be presided over by the Prime Minister today.

He will officially open and lay the groundwork for several development projects in the aviation, rail, road, oil and gas, maritime, and higher education sectors, totalling over Rs 19,850 crore.

The Prime Minister will arrive in Agatti, Lakshadweep, at approximately 3:15 PM, where he will speak at a public event. He is scheduled to arrive at Kavaratti, Lakshadweep, tomorrow, where he will lay the groundwork for several development projects about industries like solar power, drinking water, telecommunications, and health, among others.

Chennai airport metro updates. Chennai Metro Rail Corporation Announces New Projects in Trichy, Coimbatore, and Madurai.

On March 27, 2024, the CMRC declared that mass rapid transit feasibility studies had been carried out in Salem, Tiruchirappalli, and Tirunelveli.

The Metro Light will be coming to Salem and Tirunelveli, while the Trichy metro map has already been made public. The study determined which rapid transit routes and systems would work best for the cities.

For instance

• There will be 45 stations for mass rapid transit on two routes in Tiruchirappalli. It will be a 45-kilometre-long metro system with two corridors.
• There will be forty stations along three routes in Tirunelveli.
• There will be 38 stops all along the two lines in Salem.

It is anticipated that the improvements will enhance residents’ mobility.

Overview of the Chennai Metro Line

The Tamil Nadu capital city is served by the Chennai Metro rapid metro transit system. The Chennai Metro system, which opened in 2015, is the fourth-longest metro network in India. There were three lines under development and two operational on the Chennai Metro as of March 2022. The Chennai Metro Rail Corporation is in charge of building and running the Chennai Metro (CMRL).

The Government of Tamil Nadu and the Union Government of India jointly own the Chennai Metro Rail Corporation. There are both elevated and underground metro stations in the Chennai Metro system. To guarantee smooth communication and interoperability, Chennai Metro Rail Corporation intends to assume control of the Chennai Mass Rapid Transit System. The Indian Railways runs this network of elevated trains. 

Chennai Metro Routes

There are two main categories into which Chennai Metro routes can be placed.

• Blue Line and Green Line are operational lines
• Orange, Red, and Purple lines are under construction.

Chennai Metro Timings

The metro system in Chennai has made a substantial contribution to everyday commuter travel time reductions. Chennai Metro is now open from 4:30 AM to 11:00 PM. One train departs every 4-5 minutes during rush hour and every 15 minutes during off-peak hours. 

Chennai Metro: Fares

The fares on the Chennai metro system have been kept affordable, as it was established to assist the general public. The Chennai metro has a minimum fee of Rs. 10 and a maximum charge of Rs. 50. The passenger’s journey distance determines the fee.

Chennai Metro Ticketing – Token and Smart Cards

The Chennai Metro offers the following kinds of tickets:

Single Journey Tokens: Each voyage requires the purchase of a single journey token, which can be done at the ticket counter or by using the ticket vending machines found at each stop.

• A travel token can cost anything from Rs 30 to Rs 120. 
• Tickets for single and return trips can now be bought using the CMRL app. These tickets can be scanned by passengers utilising QR code ticket scanners that are stationed.

Stored or Smart Value Cards: Sometimes known as Smart Value Cards, are pre-paid, rechargeable travel cards that can be purchased at any ticket counter for Rs. 50 in addition to a refundable deposit.

• At each ticket counter or automated ticket vending machine found at every station, these cards can be refilled for a maximum of Rs 3000.
• The cost of a single travel ranges from Rs 24 to Rs 96 for SVC users, who enjoy a 20% fare reduction.

Trip Cards: Those who frequently go between the same two stations should use these cards. 20% off all fares are offered in three different types: 30 trips good for 30 days, 30 trips good for 90 days, and 60 trips good for 180 days.

Tourist Cards: With these cards, you can ride the Chennai Metro for free for a single day. After the card is returned, Rs 50 of the Rs 150 purchase price is reimbursed. This is for those who are short-term visitors to Chennai who intend to take the metro to get where they’re going.

QR Tickets: Several locations within stations have QR code boards available. Passengers can purchase tickets from the Chennai Metro Rail ticketing page by scanning the code. To pay for fares, you can use any digital payment method, such as UPI, net banking, credit/debit banking, etc. 

Singara Chennai Card: This card is offered through the NCMC programme in collaboration with SBI. This card has a 2000 rupee maximum storage capacity.

Chennai Metro Phase 2

A loan of Rs 450 crore is scheduled to be approved by the State Bank of India (SBI) for the Chennai Metro Phase 2 (Koyambedu to SIPCOT) project. Thirty train cars would be purchased with the remaining funds, of which 150 crore will be used for the Phase 2 construction project.

• This will be CMRL’s first collaboration with a commercial bank.
• This collaboration will contribute to the success of Phase 2 work.

Chennai Metro Phase 2: Funding

The Tamil Nadu government has announced that Rs 12,000 crore would go towards building Chennai Metro Phase 2. The money was approved for the 2024–2025 state budget.

Current Status of Chennai Metro Phase 2

Work on the Chennai Metro project’s Phase 2 is underway. To develop the metro infrastructure of the city, tunnelling construction has already started beneath the Adyar River, with tubes being excavated at a depth of about 18 metres. Furthermore, 

• The Corridor 5 project, which runs from Madhavaran to Sholinganallur, is being developed.
• Between the proposed Metro stations at Echankadu and Vellakal, track construction has started.
• Additionally, pier work along Corridor 5 is underway.
• There are elevated and subterranean sections in Corridor 5, with elevated sections progressing on rail from Madhavaran to Elcot.
• By the end of 2026, Corridor 5’s first operational stretch—which runs from Madhavaram to Retteri—should be completed.

Chennai Metro Rail is concentrating on finishing the construction between Poonamallee and Porur Junction in the interim. It is anticipated that operations will start by the end of 2025.

FAQs

In what ways is Chennai implementing the Chennai Metro Rail Project?

A Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) was established by the Tamil Nadu government to carry out the Chennai Metro Rail Project. Chennai Metro Rail Limited, an SPV, was incorporated on December 3, 2007, by the Companies Act. It is presently a joint venture with equal equity holdings owned by the governments of Tamil Nadu and India.

Is it a project of the federal government or the state government?

The governments of Tamil Nadu and India have an equal equity stake in this joint venture project. On November 7, 2007, the Tamil Nadu government gave its permission in principle for the two initial routes. On January 28, 2009, the Indian government gave its approval to the Chennai Metro Rail project.

What are Chennai Metro Rail Limited’s email address and web address?

Website address: www.chennaimetrorail.gov.in

E-mail address: chennaimetrorail@gmail.com

Chennai Airport’s new terminal to be ready in two years with new services. The new terminal at Chennai airport will serve both domestic and international travellers when it is finished in two years. According to a TOI report, the terminal is being built next to phase 1 of the integrated terminal (T2), which now handles international arrivals and departures, and is situated where the former international arrival facility stood. According to an official of the Airports Authority of India, the demolition work has been completed, and this month is set aside for the start of building once the contractor receives the site.

The new terminal, which will take up some 60,000 square metres, will be connected with the current T2 terminal to form a sizable integrated structure that can accommodate both domestic and international aircraft depending on demand. When the integrated terminal is finished, two domestic terminals will be on either side of it. 

Phase 2 development of T2 includes the construction of the new terminal. This phase will raise the integrated terminal’s overall area to 197,000 square metres and increase its annual passenger handling capacity from the present 25 million to 35 million. Depending on the needs, the terminal’s layout will be adaptable to suit both domestic and foreign travellers. When there is a surge in domestic passenger traffic, the new terminal may be used to route them, making everything run well for everyone.

Every day, the city airport welcomes about 50,000 domestic travellers, and at busy times like weekends and holidays, there is frequently a spike in demand for domestic travel. Airlines, however, find it difficult to reserve slots for more frequencies. Airlines will be able to add more flights to their timetables because of the increased terminal space.

More aerobridges for boarding and disembarking will be included in the integrated terminal when it is finished, enabling airlines to plan more international flights. To reduce the possibility of improperly handled luggage, it will also have several amenities like self-baggage drop, e-gates, a passenger flow monitoring system, 3D sensors for boarding, a specialised baggage scanning system, and an advanced baggage handling system.

In other news, there will be major upgrades to Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, including the extension of the international terminal and the demolition of the domestic terminal. To accommodate the increasing demand for flights and passenger traffic, the airport’s master plan seeks to enhance infrastructure and connections. Should the runway end safety area not be expanded by September 2024, the airport’s licence may be revoked. 

In addition, three passenger terminals would be positioned in between two runways at the recently constructed greenfield airport in Chennai’s Parandur. The airport will have a metro rail station and be conveniently located next to the Chennai-Bengaluru motorway via a connecting road. For approval, the Union Ministry of Environment and Forests has received the design from the state government.