By Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Chennai on Sunday, October 11, 2026, for a series of events focused on infrastructure development, scientific research and education. A key highlight of the visit was the inauguration of the Poonamallee–Vadapalani stretch, the first operational section of Chennai Metro Rail’s Phase II project, alongside Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay.
The visit also featured the inauguration and foundation-laying of development projects worth more than ₹13,000 crore across multiple sectors. These included metro rail, highways, railways, port infrastructure, petroleum and scientific research, reflecting the broad range of initiatives showcased during the Prime Minister’s day-long programme in the city.
Metro Rail Phase II Stretch Inaugurated
The opening of the Poonamallee–Vadapalani stretch marked a major event in Chennai’s ongoing metro expansion. The section is the first part of the city’s Phase II project to be inaugurated, following months of anticipation.
The inauguration was attended by Modi and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay. The new stretch is part of the wider effort to expand Chennai’s metro network and strengthen urban transport infrastructure.
Visit to IIT Madras
Following the metro inauguration, the Prime Minister offered prayers at the Jalakandeshwarar Temple on the IIT Madras campus. He subsequently visited the Sudha Gopalakrishnan Brain Centre (SGBC), a research facility at the premier institution.
The IIT Madras engagement added a scientific research component to the visit, which otherwise focused heavily on infrastructure and public development projects.
Projects Worth Over ₹13,000 Crore
Later in the afternoon, Modi attended a public function at the Kendriya Vidyalaya Ground in Chennai, where he inaugurated several projects and laid foundation stones for others with a combined value exceeding ₹13,000 crore.
The initiatives covered a range of sectors, including metro rail, highways, railways, ports, petroleum and scientific research. The programme brought together projects related to transport connectivity, infrastructure development and research, although individual project details were not specified in the event summary.
School’s Golden Jubilee Celebrations
The Prime Minister concluded his Chennai engagements by attending the golden jubilee celebrations of Jaigopal Garodia Hindu Vidyalaya Matriculation Higher Secondary School at the Chennai Trade Centre in Nandambakkam.
He addressed students during the event, bringing the day’s programme to a close after a schedule that combined infrastructure inaugurations, a visit to a scientific research centre and a school anniversary celebration.
The Chennai visit centred on the opening of a key metro section and the announcement of a wide-ranging package of development projects, alongside engagements with research and educational institutions.
