Chennai Metro’s first Phase-2 stretch from Poonamallee Bypass to Vadapalani is expected to open with limited access arrangements at Vadapalani station, potentially making passenger movement longer and more tiring.
Officials indicated that independent entry and exit points for the Phase-2 station are unlikely to be ready at the time of commissioning. The new Phase-2 station is located on Arcot Road, while the existing Phase-1 station is on 100-Feet Road, with a skywalk connecting the two.
In the absence of a dedicated ground-level entry for Phase-2, commuters may have to enter or exit through the Phase-1 station and then climb up to reach the new platforms. A separate staircase is being built near the Vadapalani police station, but it is not expected to be operational when services begin.
Even after it opens, passengers may still face steep climbs—first to the retail level and then two more levels to reach the concourse and platforms. Local resident R Prakash, who plans to travel towards Porur, said the multiple level changes could be difficult for elderly commuters, people with knee issues, and those carrying luggage.
