“Uttar Pradesh is advancing urban mobility with new metro lines in Lucknow and Kanpur, enhancing connectivity and easing traffic congestion. The Lucknow Metro’s six new corridors and Kanpur’s five proposed corridors, part of Vision-2051, aim to connect key areas, fostering economic growth and sustainable transport. With projects underway, UP is set to transform its urban transport landscape by 2027.”
UP Metro Projects Set to Transform Urban Mobility
Uttar Pradesh is witnessing a significant push in its urban transportation infrastructure with ambitious metro expansion plans in Lucknow and Kanpur, aimed at improving connectivity and reducing traffic congestion. The Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation (UPMRC) is spearheading these initiatives, aligning with the state’s Vision-2051 to create a robust, sustainable public transport network.
In Lucknow, the metro system is set to expand with six new corridors, as announced by UPMRC. These corridors will enhance connectivity across the city, linking key areas such as Munshipulia to Jankipuram (6.45 km) and IIM to Rajajipuram (17.16 km). The East-West Corridor, connecting Charbagh to Vasant Kunj, spans 11.16 km with a mix of elevated (4.28 km) and underground (6.87 km) sections, featuring 12 stations. Approved by the UP Cabinet, this corridor is estimated to cost ₹5,881 crore and is slated for completion by June 2027. These expansions aim to serve the growing population of Lucknow, providing seamless access to residential, commercial, and institutional hubs, thereby reducing reliance on private vehicles.
Kanpur’s metro network is also poised for significant growth. The UPMRC has proposed five new corridors spanning 52 km, connecting outer Kanpur and Unnao with a budget of ₹4,250 crore. These corridors are part of the Vision-2051 plan, designed to integrate suburban and urban areas, improving accessibility for commuters. The expansion builds on the existing Kanpur Metro, which currently operates an 8 km network, and aims to cater to the city’s increasing urban mobility needs.
These projects reflect Uttar Pradesh’s commitment to modernizing its urban transport infrastructure. The new lines in both cities are expected to reduce traffic congestion, lower carbon emissions, and boost local economies by improving access to commercial and industrial zones. The integration of metro systems with other modes of transport, such as buses, is also a priority to ensure last-mile connectivity for commuters.
Nationally, India’s metro network has crossed 1,000 km across 23 cities, with UP contributing significantly to this growth. The state’s focus on metro expansion aligns with the central government’s push for sustainable urban mobility, as evidenced by initiatives like the ‘One Nation One Card’ for seamless travel across public transport systems. The Delhi-Meerut Namo Bharat Corridor, a Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS), further complements UP’s metro projects by enhancing regional connectivity.
Construction challenges, such as land acquisition and funding, have been noted in both cities, but the UPMRC is working to address these issues to meet deadlines. The projects are expected to create jobs, stimulate real estate development, and improve the quality of life for millions of residents in Uttar Pradesh.
Disclaimer: This article is based on recent news reports, official statements from the Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation, and posts found on X. Information is subject to change as projects progress, and readers are advised to verify details with official sources for the latest updates.