The Tamil Nadu government is preparing to hand over operations of Chennai’s Mass Rapid Transit System to Chennai Metro Rail Limited, with a memorandum of understanding with Southern Railway expected soon.

The transition, reported on October 1, is anticipated to commence within three months. It aims to integrate and streamline the city’s public transport network under a single operator.

The MRTS, which runs on an elevated corridor, has long faced criticism over maintenance and service levels. A takeover by CMRL is expected to bring better upkeep, integrated ticketing and coordinated schedules with the metro network.

Transport experts have welcomed the move, saying unified operations could improve the commuter experience and boost ridership on the MRTS corridor.

The handover will involve staff, assets and operational responsibilities. Officials said the MoU will define the terms of the transfer between Southern Railway and the state government.

For daily commuters, the key test will be whether integration delivers tangible improvements in frequency, cleanliness and last-mile connectivity.