In a direct appeal to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Tamil Nadu BJP President K Annamalai has urged the Central Government to intervene in the stalled Phase 2 of the Chennai Metro Rail Project. Annamalai emphasized that the project, plagued by delays and funding issues, is crucial for easing congestion and improving public transport in the city, particularly for commuters in the IT corridor.
In his letter dated 30 September 2024, Annamalai highlighted the project’s slow progress and financial challenges.
The Chennai Metro Phase 2, initiated in 2020 with a budget of ₹63,246 Crores, has reportedly completed only one-third of its financial obligations in four years. Annamalai stated that the project has hit severe roadblocks due to a lack of funds, with the Tamil Nadu government unable to secure further loans due to high fiscal deficits.
According to Annamalai, the state government commenced the project before receiving financial approval from the central government or confirmation on whether funding would be through equity or grants. He accused the ruling DMK government of using the project’s delays to criticize the central government, despite significant central investments in Tamil Nadu’s infrastructure over the past decade.
The BJP state president requested the central government to consider providing 50% equity for the project to expedite its completion. He emphasized the project’s potential benefits for daily commuters in Chennai’s IT corridor and its significance in transforming public transportation in the city.
He praised the Modi government’s contributions to Tamil Nadu’s development, citing numerous project inaugurations and foundation stone layings by the Prime Minister in TN. Annamalai also mentioned that Home Minister Amit Shah laid the foundation stone for the Chennai Metro Phase 2 project in 2020.
Despite these challenges, Annamalai expressed optimism that with Central intervention, the project could be completed promptly, bringing much-needed relief to the people of Chennai. He further highlighted Prime Minister Modi’s multiple visits to Tamil Nadu in recent years to inaugurate and lay the foundations for critical projects that have benefitted millions.
The DMK Government has been blind-eyed to the snail-paced progress of phase 2 of the Chennai Metro Rail project and has instead chosen to spread malicious propaganda like they always do.
On behalf of @BJP4TamilNadu, I have written today to our Hon. PM Thiru @narendramodi avl,… pic.twitter.com/SRR1hDs7ZC
— K.Annamalai (@annamalai_k) September 30, 2024
With Phase 2 of the Chennai Metro Rail Project currently hanging in the balance, the BJP’s appeal for Central intervention could shape the project’s future. Annamalai’s letter signifies the BJP’s commitment to resolving the issue and ensuring that the Chennai Metro becomes a reality for the city’s residents.
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