Chennai Metro Rail Plans 27-storey Building at Central Square to House Government Offices

Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) is set to transform Central Square, a bustling landmark in the city, by constructing a 27-storey building on the premises. The initial phase involves the completion of a colossal eight-level parking facility capable of accommodating 1,900 vehicles, comprising 1,500 two-wheelers and 400 four-wheelers. The building’s design, after thorough consultations with stakeholders, has been finalized after several revisions. Initially proposed as a 33-storey structure, it was later scaled down to 31 floors.

A two-tower concept was also considered, with one tower at 17 floors and another at seven, but the current plan settles on a single 27-floor tower. In an effort to alleviate potential traffic congestion, the building will primarily house government offices, a shift from the original commercial development idea.

The Central Square project, with an estimated cost of ₹400 crore, serves as a vital multi-modal hub for commuters, facilitating seamless transitions between Metro Rail, suburban and long-distance trains, and buses. The square, inaugurated in March 2022, boasts amenities such as landscaping, pedestrian plazas, escalator-equipped subways, and renovated bus bays.