Sat Dec 13 23:32:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text:

Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) is behind schedule in installing additional escalators at several stations in its phase I network, despite awarding the contract in early 2023. Commuters at stations like Thirumangalam, Anna Nagar East, Government Estate, Thousand Lights, Egmore, Nehru Park, and Teynampet face inconvenience due to missing escalators connecting different levels. Of the planned 55 escalators, only 22 have been installed so far. Frustrated commuters, especially those with health issues, are demanding quicker action. CMRL officials cite limited overnight work hours as the reason for the delay and promise completion by the end of February 2026.

Here’s the news article:

Chennai Metro Escalator Installation Behind Schedule, Commuters Frustrated

CHENNAI, December 14, 2025 – Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) faces criticism for slow progress in installing additional escalators across its phase I network. Nearly two years after awarding the contract, only 22 of the planned 55 escalators have been installed, leaving commuters at stations like Thirumangalam, Anna Nagar East, Government Estate, Thousand Lights, Egmore, Nehru Park, and Teynampet with limited accessibility.

The absence of escalators connecting street level to the concourse or the concourse to platforms is forcing passengers to rely on stairs or elevators, causing significant delays, particularly during peak hours.

“I often wait for nearly ten minutes for the elevator at Thousand Lights,” said S. Balaji, a frequent commuter. “Due to health issues, I can’t always use the stairs. They need to install more escalators at busy stations like this.”

CMRL officials attribute the delays to the limited time available for installation, which can only occur between midnight and 4 a.m. when passenger traffic is halted. “We are working hard to finish the work, and we anticipate completing the installation by the end of February 2026,” an official stated. The CMRL also assured that they are planning to install a couple of more escalators before the end of the month.

The delays have sparked frustration among commuters who are urging CMRL to expedite the process to improve accessibility and convenience across the metro network.

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