Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates Orange Line Extension of Kanpur Metro

Kanpur, India (Metro Rail Today): In a major boost to urban mobility in Uttar Pradesh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today inaugurated the much-anticipated expansion of the Kanpur Metro’s Orange Line, marking a significant milestone in the city’s transport infrastructure. The extended corridor now connects IIT Kanpur to Kanpur Central, covering nearly 16 kilometers and featuring 14 stations, including five newly added underground stations: Chunniganj, Naveen Market, Bada Chauraha, Nayaganj, and Kanpur Central.

Speaking at a grand public gathering at CSA Ground, the Prime Minister officially flagged off the expanded metro service at 2:30 PM, highlighting the transformation of Kanpur into a modern, well-connected urban center.

“The facilities and infrastructure seen in major metropolitan cities are now becoming visible in Kanpur as well… Kanpur now offers better accessibility to traders and customers, especially in commercial hubs like Naveen Market and Bada Chauraha,” said Prime Minister Modi.

Following the flag-off at 3:21 PM, the inaugural metro ride commenced from Nayaganj station, with women train operators Karishma Gupta and Deeksha Rajput at the helm. The first ride featured enthusiastic participation from local schoolchildren and NGO members, celebrating the event with national flags and creative drawings inspired by Operation Sindoor and the Kanpur Metro.

Starting May 31, metro services will be available to the public from 6:00 AM, with commuters enjoying rosebud welcomes and sweets at various stations. Tickets will be accessible via counters, vending machines, NCMC cards, and the Kanpur Metro mobile app.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath lauded the Prime Minister’s efforts, stating:

“The metro has given a new identity to the industrial city of Kanpur and significantly improved its transportation system.”

Mrs. Mamta Shah, MD & CEO of Urban Infra Group, also hailed the development:

“The Kanpur Metro expansion marks a monumental leap in urban connectivity. With seamless integration of underground and elevated networks, this project sets a benchmark for modern infrastructure in India. We’re proud to witness Kanpur stepping confidently into a new era of smart transit.”

This extension follows the inauguration of the Priority Corridor (IIT to Motijheel) by PM Modi in December 2021. Shri Sushil Kumar, MD of Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation (UPMRC), reflected on the journey:

“A long-cherished dream has turned into reality, made possible by the unwavering support of the people of Kanpur and the tireless efforts of the UPMRC team and partners.”

With this launch, Kanpur joins the ranks of India’s top-tier metro-enabled cities, enhancing accessibility for commuters and strengthening its position as a key commercial and industrial hub.