Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin recently met Prime Minister Narendra Modi to address crucial pending issues, particularly the funding for the Chennai Metro Phase-II project. CM Stalin highlighted the urgent need for the release of funds, as the state has already invested Rs 18,544 crore, but financial delays have stalled progress. He emphasized that other states have received their metro project funds, and urged Modi to approve a 50:50 equity-sharing model for this project, similar to Phase-I. Furthermore, Stalin requested the immediate release of Samagra Shiksha funds, which are currently withheld. The construction of the Chennai Metro Phase-II project aims to enhance connectivity in the city and is essential for its development.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin had a significant meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday in Chennai. During their discussions, CM Stalin raised critical issues, particularly focusing on the urgent need for financial support for the Chennai Metro Phase-II project. This project has been plagued by funding shortages, causing delays in its progress. The Chief Minister emphasized that the state has already invested Rs 18,544 crore and is eager to move forward with construction.
In a statement on X, CM Stalin expressed his concerns about the delayed release of funds. He pointed out that several other states that began their metro projects after Tamil Nadu have already received their allocations. He also requested the Prime Minister to expedite the release of funds for Samagra Shiksha, which are being withheld due to ongoing issues related to the National Education Policy.
Stalin presented a memorandum outlining multiple financial demands during the meeting. He highlighted that due to fiscal constraints, the completion date for the Chennai Metro has now been pushed to December 2028 from its original deadline of December 2027. The Chief Minister urged PM Modi to approve the funding structure similar to that used for Phase-I of the project, which operated on a 50:50 equity-sharing basis between the central and state governments.
The Chennai Metro Phase-II project, which commenced construction in 2020, aims to enhance connectivity in the city’s suburbs and includes major areas like Sholinganallur and Madhavaram. Currently, Chennai operates two metro corridors, covering 45.046 km.
This meeting marks an important step toward resolving the financial issues affecting the metro project and ensuring progress in urban infrastructure for Tamil Nadu.
Tags: Tamil Nadu, MK Stalin, Narendra Modi, Chennai Metro, Phase-II Project, Urban Infrastructure, Government Funding
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Why does Tamil Nadu’s CM MK Stalin want PM Modi’s help with the Chennai Metro Phase-II project?
MK Stalin wants PM Modi’s help to speed up the project and secure central funding for it. -
What is the Chennai Metro Phase-II project?
The Chennai Metro Phase-II project is an expansion of the metro system in Chennai, aiming to improve public transport in the city. -
How does the central government support state projects like the metro?
The central government can provide financial assistance and resources, which can help state projects get completed faster. -
What are the benefits of the Chennai Metro Phase-II project?
The project will reduce traffic congestion, provide better transportation options, and help improve air quality in Chennai. - Has there been any delay in the project?
Yes, there have been some delays in the project, and that’s why MK Stalin is asking for PM Modi’s intervention to get things moving.
