The Union Cabinet has approved the second phase of the Chennai Metro Rail Project, allocating Rs 632.46 billion for its development. Phase II will feature three corridors spanning 118.9 kilometers, covering 128 stations, according to an official statement. Additionally, the Cabinet has sanctioned a Productivity Linked Bonus (PLB) of Rs 20.28 billion for 78 days to 117.2 million railway employees. Alongside this, a revised Productivity Linked Reward (PLR) scheme for major port and dock labour board employees has also been approved. Union Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting, and Information Technology, Ashwini Vaishnaw, emphasised the need for expanded infrastructure in Chennai, noting that the city's population is projected to rise to 18 million by 2048, up from 12 million in 2026. The new metro corridors will connect the North-South and East-West parts of Chennai, bringing the total metro network to 173 km once Phase II is complete. Regarding the PLB for railway employees, the maximum bonus payable is Rs 17,951 for 78 days, benefiting Group C staff including track maintainers, loco pilots, train managers, station masters, supervisors, technicians, helpers, pointsmen, and ministerial staff. The disbursement is expected before the upcoming Durga Puja or Dusshera holidays. The modified PLR scheme for port workers, valid from 2020-21 to 2025-26, aligns with an agreement between the Bipartite Wage Negotiation Committee and the Indian Port Association. The scheme aims to enhance efficiency and competitiveness among major ports. The Cabinet also approved India's entry into the International Energy Efficiency Hub, positioning the country alongside other major members such as Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Denmark, and Japan. (ET)