Mon Nov 17 00:03:00 UTC 2025: News Article Summary:

The Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA) has made significant progress on the Kilambakkam Bus Terminus skywalk project, a key infrastructure initiative designed to improve connectivity and ease congestion for commuters. On Sunday, November 16th, they successfully installed a 100-tonne prefabricated deck slab across a portion of GST Road. The second phase, crossing the road in the opposite direction, is slated for completion in early December, aiming to minimize disruption during low foot traffic periods. The entire skywalk, projected to open by the end of January 2026, will eventually connect the suburban railway station to the bus terminus, allowing pedestrians to bypass the heavily congested GST Road. Future expansion plans include connecting five railway platforms. The skywalk will also include amenities such as restrooms, ticket counters, and accessibility features for senior citizens and people with disabilities, accommodating the daily influx of 30,000-60,000 passengers and even higher numbers during festivals. Parallel efforts are underway to expedite land acquisition for a Metro Rail line in Kilambakkam, aiming for completion within two years. Traffic diversions implemented during the skywalk construction caused delays, but the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has granted a No Objection Certificate (NOC), emphasizing minimal disruption to traffic flow. Upon completion, the existing pedestrian crossing on GST Road will be closed.

News Article:

Kilambakkam Skywalk Nears Completion, Promising Traffic Relief

CHENNAI – November 17, 2025 – Commuters in Chennai can look forward to a more streamlined travel experience as the Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA) inches closer to finishing the Kilambakkam Bus Terminus skywalk. Over the weekend, a crucial 100-tonne section of the pedestrian bridge was successfully installed over GST Road, marking a significant step towards alleviating congestion and improving connectivity between the bus terminus and the suburban railway station.

The second phase of the project, addressing the opposite side of GST Road, is strategically scheduled for early December, minimizing disruptions to commuter traffic during periods of lower footfall. CMDA officials anticipate a full launch of the skywalk by late January 2026.

Upon completion, the skywalk will provide a safe and efficient pedestrian route, bypassing the often-gridlocked GST Road. Planners envision future expansions to connect all five railway platforms at the station. Furthermore, the skywalk will feature essential amenities like restrooms, ticket counters, and accessibility features designed to cater to the diverse needs of the 30,000-60,000 daily passengers, a number that swells significantly during festival seasons.

In a move to further enhance the region’s transportation infrastructure, efforts are being expedited to acquire land for a new Metro Rail line in Kilambakkam, with a target completion date within the next two years.

While construction necessitated traffic diversions and caused temporary delays, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has issued a No Objection Certificate (NOC), underscoring the importance of minimizing disruptions. The current pedestrian crossing on GST Road will be permanently closed once the skywalk opens.

The Kilambakkam skywalk is poised to dramatically improve the daily commute for thousands, offering a safer, more efficient, and accessible transit option in one of Chennai’s busiest transportation hubs.

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