Chennai may soon witness a major urban makeover as its metro authority sets sights on three underutilized sites in the city’s south. Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) is launching a feasibility study to repurpose Broken Bridge in Adyar, the Indira Nagar MRTS corridor, and the space beneath the Velachery rail overbridge into lively public destinations. These three locations, spanning over 7.3 acres combined, will be reimagined as recreational hubs that serve local communities and attract visitors. The initiative draws inspiration from the success of CMRL’s Kathipara Urban Square, which turned an unused flyover underpass into a bustling plaza with food kiosks, seating, and play areas – a project that now “attracts large weekend crowds” . CMRL aims to repeat this model in Adyar and Velachery, blending improved mobility infrastructure with tourism and leisure opportunities
Broken Bridge: From Ruins to Public Waterfront
The Broken Bridge in Adyar, an abandoned structure over the estuary, is set for a new purpose. As part of Chennai Metro Rail Limited’s urban renewal plan, the 3.5-acre site may soon become a public waterfront park and promenade.
The proposal includes:
- Waterfront Trails: Walking and cycling paths with views of the Adyar creek.
- Public Seating & Cafés: Spaces for relaxation, social gathering, and basic amenities.
- Ecological Landscaping: Greenery and accessible design that respects the estuary’s environmental sensitivity.
Once completed, the space would shift from an inaccessible zone to a functional public area—offering residents of Adyar, Besant Nagar, and nearby neighborhoods a new recreational option along the riverfront.
Indira Nagar MRTS: Civic Space Under the Viaduct
CMRL has proposed the redevelopment of a 1.5-acre stretch beneath the elevated MRTS viaduct near Indira Nagar Station. The currently unused space will be redesigned as a community-oriented public hub for local residents and commuters.
Planned features include:
- Pedestrian Plaza: Improved walkways to enhance access between the station and surrounding streets.
- Green Zones & Seating: Landscaped areas with benches, small gardens, and play areas for families.
- Vendor Spaces: Dedicated zones for food stalls and small local businesses.
- Event Area: A space for informal cultural events, exhibitions, and public gatherings.
The aim is to create a safe, functional, and shaded public space that supports daily use and strengthens local connectivity. The design also improves access to the MRTS station, promoting walkability and better integration with the surrounding neighborhood.
Velachery Overbridge: A New Event Plaza Below
CMRL has proposed to convert the 2.3-acre space beneath the Velachery railway overbridge, near the MRTS terminus, into a multipurpose civic plaza. The area, now largely inactive, will be redesigned to support local gatherings and community events.
Key planned features include:
- Event Stage: A permanent platform for public performances and cultural programs.
- Market Zones: Space for temporary stalls, markets, and exhibitions during weekends or festivals.
- Art and Lighting: Light installations and murals to improve visibility and aesthetics.
- Walkways and Cycle Paths: Clearly marked paths to ensure pedestrian safety and traffic separation.
- Play Area: A small children’s zone with basic play structures and rest seating.
The redevelopment aims to make better use of centrally located transit-adjacent land, encouraging public use while reducing misuse and neglect of the underpass space. With its proximity to the Velachery station and key roads, the plaza is expected to benefit commuters and local residents alike.
What’s Next: From Plan to Execution
CMRL is currently conducting a feasibility study to evaluate the technical, environmental, and community aspects of the proposed projects. Based on this, Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) will be prepared for each site.
Once approved, implementation will begin in phases.
This initiative follows the success of Kathipara Urban Square, where an under-flyover space was effectively turned into a public plaza. Encouraged by its reception, CMRL is now extending similar efforts to Adyar, Indira Nagar, and Velachery, aiming to integrate public spaces into the city’s transit landscape.