Kanpur’s metro project is on the cusp of a major milestone as it extends its services from the IIT station to Kanpur Central. This crucial extension promises to enhance connectivity across the city, ease traffic congestion, and revolutionise public transport. Scheduled for a trial run later this month, the extension will link key commercial areas such as Naveen Market, Bada Chauraha, and Nayaganj, significantly reducing travel times for city commuters.
Currently, the Kanpur Metro operates along the 9-km Priority Corridor between IIT and Moti Jheel. However, with the completion of the extension, the metro will soon reach Kanpur Central, one of the city’s busiest hubs. The underground stretch, spanning five stations—Chunniganj, Naveen Market, Bada Chauraha, Nayaganj, and Kanpur Central—will offer a faster, smoother travel experience, particularly in areas with heavy traffic congestion. For residents, this metro expansion is set to drastically reduce commute times. The current road journey from IIT to Moti Jheel, which takes around 60 to 75 minutes, will be cut to just 30 minutes with the metro. This time-saving efficiency will provide a more sustainable, eco-friendly alternative to the city’s heavy traffic, contributing to reduced pollution levels.
Sushil Kumar, Managing Director of UPMRC, commended the project’s progress, noting that despite various challenges, the metro’s timely completion is a testament to the team’s dedication. The recent successful test run between Moti Jheel and Nayaganj validated key systems, including signalling and power supply, bringing the project closer to completion. As Kanpur grapples with increasing traffic and pollution, the metro’s electric-powered trains offer a greener, more sustainable transportation option. With its reduced reliance on personal vehicles, the metro is poised to significantly improve the city’s mobility, contributing to a cleaner, more efficient urban environment.
