Lucknow's ambitious metro project has taken a significant leap forward with the approval of the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the East-West Corridor by the Network Planning Group (NPG). This corridor, spanning from Charbagh to Vasant Kunj, has been a crucial part of the city's urban transportation plan. The state government had already approved the expansion proposal in March this year, and now, with the NPG's nod on July 9, 2024, the project is set to move ahead.

Project Specifications and Timeline

The proposed East-West Corridor will cover a total distance of 11.165 kilometers, featuring both elevated and underground sections. The elevated portion will stretch for 4.286 kilometers, while the underground segment will cover 6.879 kilometers. The corridor will consist of 12 stations, with 7 underground and 5 elevated stations. The construction is expected to take five years, with an estimated cost of ₹5081 crore. This new corridor will connect to the existing North-South Corridor at Charbagh Metro Station, which will serve as an interchange station.

Connecting Key Areas

The East-West Corridor will enhance connectivity to several prominent locations in old Lucknow, including Aminabad and Chowk, thus easing travel for residents and reducing congestion in these areas. The corridor will also link other densely populated regions, offering a more convenient and efficient mode of transportation for the city's residents.

Stations on the East-West Corridor

The stations on this corridor will include:

1. Charbagh (Underground)

2. Gautam Buddha Nagar (Underground)

3. Aminabad (Underground)

4. Pandeyganj (Underground)

5. City Railway Station (Underground)

6. Medical Chauraha (Underground)

7. Chowk (Underground)

8. Thakurganj (Elevated)

9. Balaganj (Elevated)

10. Sarfarazganj (Elevated)

11. Moosabagh (Elevated)

12. Vasant Kunj (Elevated)

Significance of the Project

The East-West Corridor is expected to play a vital role in improving urban transportation in Lucknow. It will not only facilitate easier and quicker travel across the city but also help in decongesting road traffic. The integration with the North-South Corridor at Charbagh will ensure seamless connectivity for commuters.

Management's Perspective

Sushil Kumar, Managing Director of Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation (UPMRC), emphasised the importance of this project, stating, "The approval of the East-West Corridor by the NPG is a significant achievement. This project is crucial for urban transportation in Lucknow as well as for the existing metro corridor."

Future Prospects

With the DPR approval in place, the Lucknow Metro project is set to enter a new phase of development. The East-West Corridor will bring numerous benefits to the city's residents, providing a modern, efficient, and reliable means of transportation. The successful implementation of this project is expected to boost the city's infrastructure and enhance the overall quality of life for its inhabitants.

As the city prepares for this major expansion, the focus will be on timely completion and ensuring that the new corridor meets the highest standards of safety and efficiency. The Lucknow Metro project continues to be a cornerstone of the city's urban development strategy, promising to transform the way people travel in the years to come.