Prime Minister inaugurated and laid the foundation for 15 transformative development projects in Kanpur, including major thermal power plants worth over Rs 47,000 crore.
These projects collectively mark a pivotal expansion in the state’s electricity generation capacity, aiming to meet rising energy demands while embracing sustainable and efficient technology. The launch included the inauguration of a 660-MW extension to the Panki Thermal Power Station, valued at more than Rs 8,300 crore, alongside three 660-MW units of the Ghatampur Thermal Power Project, worth Rs 9,330 crore. Together, these initiatives are expected to add 3,081 megawatts of power capacity, increasing Uttar Pradesh’s total electricity output by nearly 25 percent. Such augmentation is crucial for powering the state’s growing industrial, agricultural, and residential sectors.
Officials highlighted that all new thermal projects employ supercritical technology — a cutting-edge advancement that allows plants to generate more electricity using less coal, thereby reducing carbon emissions substantially. This aligns with the national agenda for greener and more eco-friendly energy production, reflecting a balanced approach to rapid development and environmental stewardship. The distribution of power generated from these projects is also strategically planned. Approximately 75 percent of the electricity will cater to Uttar Pradesh’s needs, while the remainder will be supplied to Assam. This inter-state energy collaboration is expected to boost economic linkages and support equitable energy access across regions, thereby enhancing national energy security.
To support the logistical needs of the thermal power expansion, new rail overbridges were inaugurated at key junctions in Kanpur. These infrastructures will facilitate smoother transportation of coal and other essential materials while easing traffic congestion in the local areas, contributing to the broader objective of integrated urban mobility and industrial efficiency. Beyond power generation, the Prime Minister also inaugurated the new underground section of the Kanpur Metro Rail Project, valued at over Rs 2,120 crore. This extension introduces five new underground stations connecting major commercial and cultural landmarks, thus enhancing public transport accessibility and encouraging sustainable urban transit.
In addition, infrastructure development under the energy umbrella is further supported by the foundation stone laid for a 220 kV substation in the Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority region. This will cater to the rising power demand in the industrial zones of Gautam Budh Nagar, reflecting the drive to support economic growth hubs with robust energy infrastructure. Water conservation and sustainability were also emphasised, with the inauguration of a 40 million litres per day tertiary treatment plant in Kanpur. This facility will enable the reuse of treated sewage water, an important step toward sustainable resource management in the urban setting, reducing the environmental footprint of industrial and residential water usage.
Road infrastructure development forms another cornerstone of the government’s comprehensive strategy. The foundation stones were laid for key road widening projects in Kanpur district, notably connecting critical industrial corridors and Defence Corridor nodes. Improved road connectivity will streamline logistics, ease transport bottlenecks, and bolster regional economic activities, further underpinning the state’s growth trajectory. These projects collectively represent a concerted effort by the government to create a more resilient, sustainable, and inclusive infrastructure ecosystem in Uttar Pradesh. The integration of advanced energy technologies, transport infrastructure, and water management solutions underscores a holistic development model, aiming not only to empower industry and agriculture but also to improve quality of life for citizens.
Officials remarked that the state’s journey towards energy self-reliance has accelerated, with total power generation capacity rising from 15,916 MW in 2017 to nearly 25,000 MW today, with projections to exceed 27,000 MW by year-end. This rapid growth supports Uttar Pradesh’s ambition to become a leading energy producer in the country, while contributing to India’s climate goals by adopting cleaner and more efficient technologies. The combined focus on sustainability, infrastructure modernization, and equitable power distribution ensures that the benefits of development reach all sectors of society, from farmers and households to industries and emerging business hubs. It also highlights the government’s commitment to fostering a gender-neutral and eco-friendly urban future where economic progress is aligned with environmental responsibility.
While these projects offer promising prospects for Uttar Pradesh’s energy landscape, their long-term success will depend on efficient execution, community engagement, and continuous innovation in sustainable practices. As the state moves towards a greener and more self-sufficient energy future, the integration of these projects within a wider framework of urban planning and environmental care will be essential.
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