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Unused Spaces At Several Chennai Metro Stations To Be Turned Into Shops, Restaurants & Recreational Outlets; All You Need To Know

By mid-2026, commuters can expect to see many recreational, food, and beverage outlets in these spaces. This initiative is still in its early phase, but it’s a great step towards improving commuter experience and boosting metro revenue!

by Ashmeet Guliani
Unused Spaces At Several Chennai Metro Stations To Be Turned Into Shops, Restaurants & Recreational Outlets; All You Need To Know

There’s an amazing update for the commuters of Chennai Metro Rail. According to a recent buzz, the authorities are planning to open shops and food outlets in the unused spaces across several metro stations. Commuters might soon be able to dine and shop just before catching their train! Here’s everything you need to know!

Chennai Metro Stations To Get Shops & Food Outlets Soon 

Chennai Metro Stations
Image Courtesy: Chennai Metro, Wikipedia/Simply CVR

Currently, there are several food and beverage outlets in underutilised spaces across the Chennai Metro Rail’s network. Additionally, many shops are available on the street level in various stations. But now, as per a report by The Hindu, CMRL has opened up additional spaces in several stations under the 54 km Phase I and Phase II Extension work. Over 14,000 square metres of area lie vacant across 26 stations, including:

  • Teynampet
  • AGDMS
  • Alandur
  • Shenoy Nagar
  • Anna Nagar Tower
  • Thirumangalam
  • LIC
  • Thousand Lights
  • Government Estate
  • Nandanam
  • Egmore
  • Vadapalani
  • Tollgate
  • Kaladipet
  • Wimco Nagar

Authorities are now planning to open new shops, restaurants, and recreational outlets at the concourse or ticketing levels of these stations that have remained vacant for a long time. Earlier, passenger numbers were low, and facilities like water, drainage, and power were not available in many concourse levels. But with the growing footfall, officials have started developing these facilities too.

Also Read: Chennai Metro To Phase Out Ticket Vending Machines From 41 Stations, Encourages Passengers To Go Online

Initiative Aims To Improve Commuter Experience

Chennai Metro officials have floated bids to let out spaces at both street and concourse levels. A CMRL official told The Hindu that using these underutilised areas can significantly boost revenue. By mid-2026, commuters can expect to see many recreational, food, and beverage outlets in these spaces. Reportedly, work to bring this plan to life will begin soon. Apart from shops, authorities may also set up office spaces, co-working areas, or even supermarkets at metro stations.

This initiative is still in its early phase, but it’s a great step towards improving commuter experience and boosting metro revenue. If everything goes as planned, Chennai Metro commuters could soon shop or dine right inside the stations before catching their trains! It’s amazing, right?

Also Read: Chennai’s Marina Beach Is Covered In Toxic Foam Extending To 1.5 Km Of City’s Shoreline; What You Should Know

What do you think of this initiative? Share your thoughts with us in the comment section below!

Cover Image Courtesy: Chennai Metro, Wikipedia and Freepik/jcomp

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First Published: October 28, 2025 11:43 AM