Rajnath Singh

Defence Minister of India

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh expresses his gratitude to PM for proposed metro extension in Lucknow

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh on August 12, 2025 thanked Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for approving the proposed metro extension from Charbagh in Lucknow to Vasant Kunj. Appreciating the cabinet decision, Shri Rajnath Singh termed the East-West corridor extension  of Lucknow Metro’s Phase 1-B as boon for the daily commuters who face congestion in the old city area.

The route of the extension will run from Charbagh to Vasant Kunj, having total length of 11.165 kilometers. It will feature both elevated (4.286 km) and underground (6.879 km) sections, with a total of 12 stations on this corridor. The extension aims to connect major business districts and residential areas, improving the connectivity, and reducing the congestion. The new corridor is expected to handle an additional 2 lakh passengers per day. The project is estimated to cost Rs 5,801 Crore.

Raksha Mantri congratulated the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh Yogi Adityanath and Minister of Urban and Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) Shri Manohar Lal for the proposed metro extension in Lucknow.

Benefits and Bolstering Growth:

The Phase-1B of Lucknow Metro Rail Project represents a significant advancement in the city’s infrastructure development. Phase-1B acts as a major expansion of the Metro Rail Network in the city.

Enhanced Connectivity:

Phase-1B of the Lucknow Metro project will introduce approximately 11.165 Km of new metro lines, significantly improving public transportation in the oldest and most densely populated areas of the city, which currently lack efficient connectivity.

This phase aims to seamlessly integrate key zones of Old Lucknow, including:

  • Commercial hubs such as Aminabad, Yahiyaganj, Pandeyganj, and Chowk
  • Critical healthcare facilities, most notably the King George’s Medical University (Medical College)
  • Major tourist attractions, including Bara Imambara, Chota Imambara, Bhool Bhulaiya, Clock Tower, and Rumi Darwaza
  • Culinary destinations known for the city’s rich and historic food culture

By bridging these vital areas with the metro network, Phase-1B will not only enhance connectivity but also stimulate economic activity, tourism, and ease urban mobility for both residents and visitors.

  • Reduction in Traffic Congestion: Metro Rail as an efficient alternate road transport and with Phase-1B as an extension to the Metro Rail network in the Lucknow city is expected to alleviate traffic congestion and will be particularly impactful on heavily congested routes of the Old Lucknow. Reduction in road traffic can lead to smoother movement of vehicles, reduction in travel time, increasing overall road safety etc.
  • Environmental Benefits: The addition of Phase-1B Lucknow Metro Rail Project and increase in overall Metro Rail Network in Lucknow city, will significantly reduce carbon emissions compared to traditional fossil fuel-based transport.
  • Economic Growth: Reduced travel times and improved access to different parts of the city such as Airport, Railway Stations and Bus Depots can enhance productivity by allowing individuals to reach their workplaces and destinations more efficiently. Also, the enhanced connectivity can stimulate local businesses, especially in areas near new metro stations which can also attract investment and development in previously less accessible regions.
  • Social Impact: The expansion of Phase-1B Metro Rail network in Lucknow will provide more equitable access to public transport, benefiting diverse socio-economic groups and reducing transport disparities which will contribute to a higher quality of life by reducing commute times and improving access to essential services.