PIB approves ₹5,801 crore East-West Corridor of Lucknow Metro Rail Project

Lucknow, India (Metro Rail Today): In a significant development for urban transportation in Uttar Pradesh’s capital, the East-West Corridor of the Lucknow Metro has received clearance from the Public Investment Board (PIB). This 12-kilometre corridor, proposed under Phase 1B of the Lucknow Metro expansion, will run from Charbagh to Vasant Kunj, bringing modern metro connectivity to densely populated areas of Old Lucknow.

With PIB’s recommendation, the proposal now moves to the Union Cabinet for final approval—a key step before construction begins.

Project Highlights:

• Route Length: 11.165 km

• Metro Stations: 12 (7 underground, 5 elevated)

• Estimated Cost: ₹5,801 crore

• Construction Timeline: 4–5 years

• Interchange Hub: Charbagh (with the North-South Corridor)

The Detailed Project Report (DPR) was approved by the Uttar Pradesh Government in March 2024, and received clearance from the Network Planning Group (NPG) in July. The PIB meeting, chaired by the Union Finance Secretary, was held in Delhi earlier this month.

Proposed Stations:

• Underground: Charbagh, Gautam Buddha Nagar, Aminabad, Pandeyganj, City Railway Station, Medical Chauraha, Chowk

• Elevated: Thakurganj, Balaganj, Sarfarazganj, Moosabagh, Vasant Kunj

Once operational, the East-West Corridor will link up with the existing 23-kilometre North-South Corridor at Charbagh Metro Station, enabling smoother, faster intra-city travel. The total length of the Lucknow Metro network will then extend to 35 kilometres, further easing traffic congestion and boosting regional development.

Expert Reactions to the Metro Expansion

Shri Sushil Kumar, Managing Director of Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation (UPMRC), welcomed the milestone:

“The East-West Corridor will deliver safe, sustainable, and efficient mobility solutions to some of Lucknow’s busiest and most culturally significant areas. With seamless integration into the current network, this project will reshape the way the city commutes, works, and connects.”

Joining in the praise, Mrs. Mamta Shah, Managing Director & CEO of Urban Infra Group, commented on the strategic value of the project:

“This development marks a crucial leap toward integrated and inclusive urban infrastructure. The Charbagh–Vasant Kunj Metro line will not only enhance last-mile connectivity but also uplift socio-economic activity across historic and underserved neighborhoods of Lucknow. Urban Infra Group applauds UPMRC’s visionary approach and remains committed to supporting smart transit solutions for a future-ready India.”

The project is expected to be completed within five years of commencement. With groundwork and technical studies already in place, construction will begin following the Union Cabinet’s final nod. Currently, Lucknow Metro serves 21 stations, from CCS Airport to Munshipulia.

Stay tuned for more updates as Lucknow takes a bold step toward becoming a modern, connected, and commuter-friendly smart city.