More than half of the 118.9-km Chennai Metro Phase II project has been completed, while ballastless track laying has progressed to around 67 km, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing infrastructure project. According to project officials, around 32 km of tracks have been laid along one section, 24 km along another section and a further 10.5 km on a third section. Track-laying work is currently progressing at an average pace of about 125 metres per day. Officials said every completed stretch undergoes multiple quality and safety inspections before subsequent construction activities begin. The Rs 63,246-crore Phase II project has achieved 54.62% overall physical progress, according to an update provided to Parliament earlier this month. The project is being regularly reviewed at multiple administrative levels to monitor progress and facilitate timely completion. However, the project has faced delays due to several factors, including the COVID-19 pandemic, shifting of underground utilities, re-tendering of certain station contracts and labour shortages during the state assembly election period. Meanwhile, the first operational stretch of Phase II, covering 14.64 km, has completed the mandatory safety clearances but is still awaiting its formal inauguration. The latest progress in track laying highlights the continued advancement of Chennai's Metro Phase II infrastructure, even as construction timelines remain under review.