Chennai Metro Rail (CMRL) conducted a trial run on 11 January, 2026, from Porur Junction to Vadapalani, covering a 5.5 km stretch, including a double-decker line.

The trial was part of the ongoing efforts to extend Metro services to Vadapalani, aimed at reducing travel time for commuters between Poonamallee and Vadapalani to about half an hour by February. During the test, the train traveled at a speed of 15 km/h, but officials expect to increase the speed to 45-50 km/h in the coming weeks. CMRL Managing Director MA Siddique explained, "Trains will be operated normally between Poonamallee to Porur with all stops. But the next stop after Porur will be Vadapalani," he said.

Although the Metro will begin with driver-operated trains, CMRL plans to transition to driverless services later. The full service could begin by mid-February, pending safety clearances.