When metro train services begin along the OMR stretch, the stations will also function as compact commercial hubs, featuring eateries, clothing stores, and other retail outlets designed to serve both commuters and local residents. A contract has been awarded for the design and civil construction of entry and exit points, which will include commercial facilities at nine elevated stations on the 45.8 km-long Corridor 3 — linking Madhavaram to the IT Park in Siruseri. The project, valued at ?250.47 crore, includes the construction of up to three floors of commercial space at stations in Nehru Nagar, Kandanchavadi, Perungudi, Thoraipakkam, Mettukuppam, PTC Colony, Okkiyampet, Karapakkam, and Okkiyam Thoraipakkam.

"Initially, the station designs were kept simple, but they have now been adapted for transit-oriented development to improve commuter convenience and generate additional revenue," said an official. The commercial areas will be leased out to vendors and businesses, the official added.

Unlike the larger commercial complexes planned at other stations, such as Mandaveli on Corridor 3 and Thirumangalam on Corridor 5, the facilities along OMR will be more compact. At Mandaveli, for instance, the station’s entry and exit points will be located within the existing bus terminus, which will include two multi-storey structures. Meanwhile, in Sholinganallur, an eight-storey building is planned at the junction where Corridors 3 and 5 intersect.

Corridor 3, part of the metro network’s Phase 2, is set to include 28 underground and 19 elevated stations, with construction currently underway at various stages across the route. The entire corridor is expected to be completed by next year.

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