Lucknow, the capital city of Uttar Pradesh, is on the cusp of a transformative expansion of its metro rail network, a development that promises to significantly enhance urban connectivity and promote a greener mode of transportation for its burgeoning population.
The state government has given its affirmative nod to Phase 2 of the Lucknow Metro Rail project, a crucial step forward that now awaits the budgetary approval from the central government to set the wheels in motion. The project’s progression hinges on clearances from the Public Investment Board (PIB) and the Union Cabinet, with a pivotal PIB meeting anticipated towards the end of April, potentially paving the way for subsequent stages, including the crucial tendering process for construction. The Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation (UPMRC) is already proactively preparing for this next phase of development. The approved second phase of the Lucknow Metro will establish a vital north-south corridor, seamlessly connecting the major transportation hub of Charbagh with the developing residential and commercial area of Vasant Kunj. This 11.2-kilometre extension will incorporate a total of 12 strategically located stations, meticulously designed to cater to the commuting needs of a wider swathe of the city’s inhabitants. The design of this new route envisages a blend of both underground and elevated metro lines, a thoughtful integration intended to ensure a smooth and efficient transit experience for passengers, navigating the existing urban landscape with minimal disruption.
The underground segment of this extension will comprise seven stations – Charbagh, Gautam Buddha Marg, Aminabad, Pandeyganj, City Railway Station, Medical Chauraha, and Chowk – stretching over approximately 6.879 kilometres. This subterranean network will efficiently serve some of the city’s most densely populated and commercially significant areas. Complementing this underground reach, the project includes five elevated stations: Thakurganj, Balaganj, Musabagh, Sarfarazganj, and Basant Kunj. To ensure the seamless operation and maintenance of the expanded fleet, a dedicated metro depot is also planned at Basant Kunj. While the standard construction timeline for a project of this scale is typically around six years, authorities are expressing optimism about potentially expediting the process. Should the necessary approvals from the PIB and the central government be granted in a timely manner, the ambitious target is to complete the entire Phase 2 project within a compressed timeframe of four years. This accelerated timeline underscores the government’s commitment to bolstering Lucknow’s public transport infrastructure and fostering sustainable urban development.
The existing Phase 1 of the Lucknow Metro, currently operational between the Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport and Munshi Pulia, spans a distance of 22.87 kilometres. The addition of Phase 2 will significantly expand the city’s metro network to approximately 34 kilometres, bringing the convenience and efficiency of rapid transit to a far greater number of Lucknow’s residents and visitors. This expansion is poised to play a crucial role in alleviating the growing burden of traffic congestion on the city’s roads, offering a comfortable, reliable, and environmentally friendly alternative to private vehicles. By enhancing connectivity across key areas of Lucknow, the expanded metro system will not only improve the daily commute for countless individuals but also contribute to a more sustainable and equitable urban environment, aligning with the broader goals of reducing carbon emissions and fostering inclusive growth. The anticipation now rests on the swift approval from the central authorities to translate this ambitious plan into tangible progress for the city and its people.
Also read: https://urbanacres.in/pune-bridge-closure-metro-link-takes-shape/
Lucknow Metro Expansion Tracks Green Future
