In view of the IPL cricket match scheduled to be played at Chepauk stadium today, Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has announced the extension of metro services till 1:00 am on March 27.

The move is aimed at ensuring safe home travel for cricket fans. Further, due to the anticipated network congestion around the stadium, cricket fans have been advised to purchase metro tickets in advance through online platforms or ticket counters to avoid long queues post-match.

“After the match, the rush at Government Estate / Puratchi Thalaivar Dr. M.G. Ramachandran Central Metro stations would be very high and may result in long wait in the queues for purchase of ticket, ” CMRL mentioned in an official statement.

Commuters are advised to buy their metro tickets in advance for return / round trip either online from platforms like CMRL mobile App, Paytm app, Phonepe app, WhatsApp, ONDC, etc., or at the ticket counters at any of the stations before going to the stadium, the official statement read.

Chennai Super Kings is scheduled to play against Gujarat Titans at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai today at 7:30 pm. 

Running extra mile 

For the convenience of late-night commuters, single journey tickets at flat fares of Rs. 40 from Govt Estate Metro and Rs. 50 from Puratchi Thalaivar Dr. M.G. Ramachandran Central Metro Station will be available after 11:00 pm at CMRL network. 

After 11:00 pm, Chennai metro will operate only from Govt Estate Metro Station towards Puratchi Thalaivar Dr. M.G.Ramachandran Central Metro Station, with interchange facilities to the Green Line available at Puratchi Thalaivar Dr. M.G.Ramachandran Central Metro Station.

Earlier on March 22, Chennai Metro extended train services beyond 11 pm, operating until 1 am on March 23, 2024. The train services extension facilitated cricket fans who thronged the Chepauk stadium for the IPL opener between CSK and RCB.