Lucknow Gets 5,801 Crore Boost As Centre Approves East-West Metro Corridor
In a monumental step towards forging a more connected and sustainable urban landscape, the Government of India has officially greenlit the ₹5,801 crore East-West Corridor of the Lucknow Metro Rail Project. This ambitious expansion, designed to be completed within five years, is poised to redefine urban mobility and social equity by linking the historic, densely populated heart of Old Lucknow with its rapidly developing residential hubs. The project is not merely an infrastructure upgrade but a catalyst for cultural preservation and eco-friendly growth, serving the city’s larger interest.
The newly approved corridor, spanning 11.165 kilometres, is a marvel of modern engineering, featuring a complex blend of 4.286 kilometres of elevated tracks and 6.879 kilometres of underground tunnels. The line will serve 12 stations, with seven strategically placed beneath the city’s surface to navigate the intricate fabric of Old Lucknow and five elevated stations connecting to newer localities. This design approach is critical for minimizing the project’s footprint and preserving the city’s architectural heritage. The corridor will also seamlessly integrate with the existing North-South line at the Charbagh Metro Station, creating a unified and efficient network that will dramatically shorten travel times for countless residents.
This investment is a powerful statement on the city’s commitment to a zero net carbon future. By offering a clean, electrified mode of mass transport, the metro expansion is expected to significantly reduce vehicular traffic and curb carbon emissions. A public transport system of this scale is a cornerstone of an equitable city, providing safe, reliable, and gender-neutral mobility. It ensures that everyone, from daily commuters to tourists and residents, has equal access to economic opportunities, cultural hubs, and educational institutions without contributing to urban pollution. The project’s focus on sustainability extends beyond its operational phase, as it promotes a denser, more walkable urban form, which is essential for a truly eco-friendly city.
Industry experts believe that the East-West Corridor is a transformative force for Lucknow’s mobility ecosystem. By linking cherished heritage areas like Aminabad and Chowk with emerging hubs such as Vasant Kunj, the project is expected to not only alleviate severe traffic congestion but also stimulate local commerce and tourism. A high-ranking official from the metro corporation noted that the expansion would provide residents with a world-class transit system even in the most congested parts of the city. This connectivity will be a boon for local businesses and artisans in the old city, giving them unprecedented access to a broader customer base and revitalising the area’s economic potential while preserving its unique cultural identity.
As the tendering process for construction is set to begin, the project symbolises a forward-looking vision for Lucknow. The expansion will increase the city’s total metro network to 35 kilometres, solidifying its position as a leader in India’s urban mobility sector. This ambitious public initiative demonstrates a clear understanding that modern infrastructure can and must be a tool for societal progress, economic development, and environmental stewardship. The successful completion of this corridor will not only serve the immediate needs of the city’s populace but also lay down a sustainable blueprint for future urban growth, ensuring that Lucknow remains a vibrant, livable, and equitable metropolis for generations to come.
