The Modi government is taking a significant step to realise its ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ vision. The Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation (UPMRC) has officially begun work on a Long-Term Metro Development Plan (2025-2047) for three key cities: Lucknow, Kanpur and Agra.
The plan has received approval from the Central Government, along with a No Objection Certificate (NOC), clearing the way for metro network expansion in these cities. Unlike traditional projects, this long-term strategy focuses on population growth and urban expansion over the next 23 years, ensuring that metro systems remain future-ready and in line with the cities’ development.
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Coordinating with development authorities for smart growth
UPMRC Managing Director Sushil Kumar has reached out to the Lucknow, Kanpur and Agra Development Authorities and the Uttar Pradesh Housing and Development Council for support. He emphasised that metro expansion should not be based solely on current demand but must also account for future urban growth and emerging residential and commercial hubs.
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Authorities have been asked to share their upcoming master plans and details of potential housing and business projects. This will ensure that future metro routes and stations connect areas where new communities and workplaces are likely to develop, making public transport more convenient and accessible for future residents.
With the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs granting the NOC, UPMRC has now begun work on Alternative Analysis Reports and Detailed Project Reports (DPRs). These studies will assess whether metro rail or other Mass Rapid Transit Systems (MRTS) are most suitable for different corridors.
Experts believe this integrated, long-term planning will improve traffic management, make urban development more organised and boost the economic growth of Lucknow, Kanpur and Agra. By aligning metro routes with projected urban growth, the government aims to create efficient, future-ready public transport systems that will serve these cities well into 2047.