Chennai MRTS Handover: Detailed Memorandum of Understanding in Final Preparation Phase
Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw confirmed on Friday that the Tamil Nadu government and the Ministry of Railways are actively preparing a comprehensive memorandum of understanding (MoU) for the formal handover of the Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS) to state authorities. This significant development follows in-principle approval granted in July for transferring all MRTS assets, operations, and maintenance responsibilities.
Timeline and Financial Implications of the Transfer
Government sources have revealed that a draft MoU from Southern Railways is anticipated next week, with the final signing expected by June. The complete takeover process is projected to require 24 to 30 months following the agreement. The Tamil Nadu government will need to allocate between ₹600 crore and ₹700 crore to acquire the remaining stake, despite already holding a 67% share in the joint venture with Southern Railway.
Minister's Response to Parliamentary Query
Minister Vaishnaw's announcement came in direct response to DMK MP P Wilson's inquiry regarding the status of merging MRTS with Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) and reasons behind the MoU signing delay. The minister clarified that while in-principle approval has been secured, the detailed documentation process is currently underway between both governmental entities.
Infrastructure and Operational Transfer Details
The approval encompasses comprehensive transfer of all MRTS infrastructure components, including:
- Rail tracks and supporting bridges
- Advanced signaling systems
- Complete electrification networks
- Associated land parcels and buildings
- Full operation and maintenance responsibilities
A senior government official emphasized that "the city will receive improved MRTS services upgraded to metro standards by January 2029" following the transfer completion.
Interdepartmental Coordination and Approval Process
Following the July approval aimed at facilitating seamless intermodal connectivity within Chennai, a special joint committee was established with the Chennai Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority (CUMTA) serving as convenor. This committee was tasked with developing the broad framework for the MoU.
Internal discussions are currently progressing across eight critical railway departments:
- Electrical engineering
- Civil engineering
- Signaling systems
- Finance and accounting
- Construction organization
- Divisional railway management
- Additional technical departments
- Administrative units
Once railways provide the concurred MoU to state authorities, it will undergo an additional two-week review involving finance and revenue departments along with CMRL representatives. Subsequently, the document will be forwarded to Chief Minister M.K. Stalin for final approval.
Strategic Rationale and Future Enhancements
Despite MRTS operating as a loss-making unit, state officials confirm the takeover represents a strategic urban mobility initiative. "MRTS is a loss-making unit, but despite that, the state wants to take it over as it is an urban mobility measure to provide an improved public transport system integrating Chennai Metro," explained a government representative.
Following the transfer completion, the government plans to introduce air-conditioned coaches for MRTS services, significantly enhancing passenger comfort and aligning the system with modern metro standards. This integration promises to create a unified, efficient public transportation network for Chennai residents, addressing long-standing connectivity challenges while improving overall urban mobility infrastructure.
