Prayagraj to get full-fledged Metro System, replacing the Metrolite Plan

Prayagraj, India (Metro Rail Today): In a major boost to Prayagraj’s urban transport infrastructure, authorities are now considering a proposal to replace the previously approved Metrolite project with a full-fledged Metro system. The move comes in response to the city’s fast-growing population, rising vehicle density, and the urgent need for a modern, high-capacity transit solution.

According to sources, the new Prayagraj Metro Project will feature a 44-kilometre network spanning two corridors with 39 stations, offering seamless connectivity across key parts of the city.

• Corridor 1: Bamrauli to Jhunsi City Lake — 23 km with 20 stations

• Corridor 2: Shantipuram to Chheoki — 21 km with 19 stations

A central interchange station at Parade Ground will connect both routes, enabling smooth passenger transfers between corridors.

Project Cost and Design Features

The upgraded Metro project is estimated to cost around ₹10,000 crore, up from the previously proposed ₹8,747 crore under the Metrolite plan. The Detailed Project Report (DPR) is expected to be finalized after the Diwali festival, following which authorities will carry out inspections along the identified routes.

Officials from the Prayagraj Development Authority (PDA) and Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation (UPMRC) recently held a joint meeting and agreed that the full Metro system will follow the same routes earlier earmarked for the Metrolite alignment.

The proposed Metro trains will have three coaches with a combined passenger capacity exceeding 1,200 commuters, ensuring faster and more efficient urban mobility. The system aims to significantly reduce traffic congestion and vehicular pollution, promoting sustainable and inclusive growth in the region.

Governance and Land Acquisition

To ensure smooth execution, the government is forming a Metro Council comprising 30 members, including senior officials from multiple departments. This council will oversee land acquisition and inter-departmental coordination.

Around 100 villages are expected to be affected by the project, and the government has assured compensation at four times the prevailing circle rate to ensure fair and transparent remuneration for landowners.

Commenting on the development, Mrs. Mamta Shah, Managing Director & CEO, Urban Infra Group, said:

“The shift from a Metrolite to a full Metro system in Prayagraj reflects India’s growing urban ambition and the government’s long-term commitment to sustainable, future-ready mobility. This upgrade not only enhances transport capacity but also symbolizes the country’s focus on building resilient infrastructure that aligns with the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision.”

With this strategic upgrade, Prayagraj joins other major cities like Lucknow, Kanpur, and Agra in adopting high-capacity metro systems under the Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation’s vision. Once implemented, the Prayagraj Metro is expected to transform urban mobility, support economic activity, and elevate the city’s standing as a key hub in North India’s modern transport network.