To deal with the problem of rising number of registered vehicles in Kanpur and to provide efficient connectivity to its citizens, the Centre envisaged the construction of the Kanpur Metro. Even though building a mass transit transport network in one of the oldest industrial and densely populated cities is no ordinary feat, this dream is set to become a reality for the citizens of Kanpur. Once fully operational, the Kanpur Metro would provide residents of the city access to a world-class transport system.
Kanpur Metro project: Overview
The Uttar Pradesh government approved the Kanpur Metro project in 2016, while the Centre gave a go-ahead to the project in 2019. The Kanpur Metro is jointly financed by the Centre and the Uttar Pradesh government.
The detailed project report for phase-1 of the Kanpur Metro was approved by the Uttar Pradesh cabinet in March 2016. The project is being implemented by the Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation Limited (UPMRCL). The Kanpur Metro is also the first metro rail network in India to use double T-girders for a metro rail corridor, cutting down cost and time spent.
See also: All about the Kanpur Development Authority (KDA)
Kanpur Metro: Status
Prime minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the completed section of the Kanpur Metro Rail project on December 28, 2021. The completed 9-km stretch of the Kanpur Metro is from IIT-Kanpur to Moti Jheel. Stations on the Kanpur Metro priority section, which was completed in a record two years’ time, include IIT-Kanpur, Kalyanpur, SPM Hospital, Kanpur University, Gurudev Crossing, Geeta Nagar, Rawatpur, GSVM Medical College and Moti Jheel. The remaining stretch of Kanpur Metro’s Phase 1 is likely to be completed and operational in Q4 FY25.
Source: lmrcl.com
Kanpur Metro stations on 9-km priority corridor
- IIT-Kanpur
- Kalyanpur
- SPM Hospital
- Kanpur University
- Gurudev Crossing
- Geeta Nagar
- Rawatpur
- GSVM Medical College
- Moti Jheel
Kanpur Metro route
The entire Kanpur metro route will be built in two phases. Under Kanpur Metro phase-1, a network spanning 32.385 km will be built with two lines – the Orange Line and the Blue Line. These lines will connect major public nodes and city cluster areas of Kanpur, thus, cutting down vehicular traffic and pollution. The transport network will also push demand for residential and commercial spaces along these corridors.
Kanpur Metro map
Here’s a map showing the current and upcoming routes and stations of Kanpur Metro:
Source: UPMRCL
Kanpur Metro stations: Phase-1
Under phase-1, two corridors of the Kanpur Metro, the Orange Line and the Blue Line will be built. The DPR for phase-1 pegs the total daily ridership in 2024 (when the proposed lines will be fully operational) at 9.4 lakhs, 10.8 lakhs in 2031 and 13.5 lakhs in 2041.
Kanpur Metro: Orange Line
The Orange Line, with 14 elevated and eight underground stations will pass through the heart of the city, covering several prominent nodes and educational institutions in Kanpur, which is counted among the most populous Indian cities and the largest one in Uttar Pradesh. To run between IIT Kanpur and Naubasta, the 23.785-km Orange Line of the Kanpur Metro will have 22 stations. While 15.164 kms of this line would be elevated, the remaining 8.621 kms will be underground.
Kanpur Metro Orange Line: Stations
- IIT Kanpur
- Kalyanpur Railway Station
- SPM Hospital
- CSJM University
- Gurudev Chauraha
- Geeta Nagar
- Rawatpur Railway Station
- Lala Lajpat Rai Hospital
- Moti Jheel
- Chunniganj
- Naveen Market
- Bada Chauraha
- Nayaganj
- Birhana Road
- Kanpur Central Railway Station
- ISBT Jhakarkati
- Old Transport Nagar
- Kidwai Nagar North
- Kidwai Nagar South
- Yashoda Nagar
- Baudh Nagar
- Naubasta
Kanpur Metro: Blue Line
This 8.6-km elevated Blue Line corridor of the Kanpur Metro will run between Chandra Shekhar Azad University and Jaurali. The Blue Line will have a total of nine stations. The tender for this project is yet to be passed. The corridor, with elevated and underground stations, will provide connectivity to various densely-populated residential areas in Kanpur, including Kakadeo and Govind Nagar.
Kanpur Metro Blue Line: Stations
- CSA University
- GSVM Medical College
- Rawatpur Railway Station
- Kakadeo
- Vijay Nagar
- Dada Nagar
- Barra-7
- Barra-8
- Jarauli
Estimated cost of Kanpur Metro
The estimated cost of the Kanpur Metro project is Rs 11,076.48 crores. The project is expected to be completed in five years. About 40 lakh people are expected to be benefitted by the new metro rail project.
Kanpur Metro: Timeline
2015
September: Kanpur Metro Rail Corporation is formed.
November: DPR for phase-1 is submitted to the state government by LMRC and RITES.
2016
March: Uttar Pradesh government approves phase-1 DPR.
October: Following the centre’s approval for the project, the former urban development minister, M Venkaiah Naidu, laid the foundation stone for the project along with the then Uttar Pradesh CM Akhilesh Yadav, at Brijendra Swaroop Park in Benajhabar.
2017
July: Civil work starts for phase-1.
September: Centre seeks changes in the DPR.
December: New DPR is prepared.
2018
March: Uttar Pradesh cabinet approves Kanpur Metro project.
June: Finance Ministry gives in-principle approval to the Kanpur Metro.
September: DPR sent to the central government.
2019
February: Uttar Pradesh allocates Rs 175 crores in its budget, to start preliminary work; Centre approves Kanpur Metro project.
March: PM Narendra Modi lays the foundation stone for the Kanpur Metro project.
July: LMRC invites tender for construction of elevated track and stations.
September: Afcons Infra awarded tender to construct nine stations along with tracks and elevated viaduct.
November: CM Yogi Adityanath inaugurates civil work for the Kanpur Metro.
2020
February: CM Yogi Adityanath allocates Rs 358 crores towards Kanpur Metro phase-1.
September: EIB to invest 650 million euros for the project.
2021
February: Uttar Pradesh budget 2021-22 allocates Rs 597 crores for Kanpur Metro rail project.
May: Initial work starts for the 8.621-km underground section of Kanpur Metro.
June: UPMRC completes the track laying work for a stretch of around one km, from IIT Kanpur to Kalyanpur Railway station for the priority corridor.
See also: All about bhu naksha in Uttar Pradesh
Kanpur Metro: Fare in 2024
| Station | IIT Kanpur | Kalyanpur Metro | SPM Hospital | Vishwavidyalaya Metro | Gurudev Chauraha | Geeta Nagar | Rawatpur Metro | LLR Hospital | Motijheel Metro |
| IIT Kanpur | – | Rs 10 | Rs 15 | Rs 20 | Rs 20 | Rs 20 | Rs 20 | Rs 30 | Rs 30 |
| Kalyanpur Metro | Rs 10 | – | Rs 10 | Rs 15 | Rs 20 | Rs 20 | Rs 20 | Rs 20 | Rs 30 |
| SPM Hospital | Rs 15 | Rs 10 | – | Rs 10 | Rs 15 | Rs 20 | Rs 20 | Rs 20 | Rs 20 |
| Vishwavidyalaya Metro | Rs 20 | Rs 15 | Rs 10 | – | Rs 10 | Rs 15 | Rs 20 | Rs 20 | Rs 20 |
| Gurudev Chauraha | Rs 20 | Rs 20 | Rs 15 | Rs 10 | – | Rs 10 | Rs 15 | Rs 20 | Rs 20 |
| Geeta Nagar | Rs 20 | Rs 20 | Rs 20 | Rs 15 | Rs 10 | – | Rs 10 | Rs 15 | Rs 20 |
| Rawatpur Metro | Rs 20 | Rs 20 | Rs 20 | Rs 20 | Rs 15 | Rs 10 | – | Rs 10 | Rs 15 |
| LLR Hospital | Rs 30 | Rs 20 | Rs 20 | Rs 20 | Rs 20 | Rs 15 | Rs 10 | – | Rs 10 |
| Motijheel Metro | Rs 30 | Rs 30 | Rs 20 | Rs 20 | Rs 20 | Rs 20 | Rs 15 | Rs 10 | – |
Kanpur Metro: Timings
Kanpur Metro operates at a speed of 90 km/h, significantly reducing traffic congestion in the city and providing a faster mode of transport for commuters. The first metro service begins at 6 AM, and the last train departs at 10 PM.
With trains arriving every 5 minutes, commuters can easily find a train that fits their schedule. Travelling from Kanpur Metro Station to Vishwavidyalaya Metro Station takes approximately 4 minutes, to Geeta Nagar Metro Station around 10 minutes, and to LLR Metro Station about 13 minutes. This efficiency has greatly improved travel times across the city.
Kanpur Metro: Amenities
Kanpur Metro provides station and train announcements in both Hindi and English, with corresponding text displays in the same languages. Similar to metro systems in other cities, Kanpur Metro features a mix of priority and regular stations. These stations will offer additional conveniences like food courts, shopping outlets, and ATMs for the public. To maintain a clean and safe environment, eating, smoking, drinking, and chewing gum are strictly prohibited throughout the metro network. These measures ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience for all commuters.
Kanpur Metro: Places of interest nearby
The Kanpur Metro route connects various parts of the city, making it easy to visit Kanpur’s top attractions and tourist spots. The city is renowned for housing the prestigious IIT Kanpur, a hub of academic excellence. For those looking to relax, the metro provides convenient access to serene locations like Buddha Park and Motijheel.
Shopping enthusiasts can hop on the Kanpur Metro to explore vibrant retail destinations such as Swaroop Nagar Market, Rave Moti Mall, and Naveen Market. Additionally, the tranquil J.K. Temple offers a peaceful retreat for visitors. The metro route also ensures proximity to key landmarks like GSVM Medical College and Hallet Hospital (LLR). To wrap up your day, you can head to Miraj Cinemas to enjoy the latest blockbuster.
Kanpur Metro: Impact on real estate
Kanpur, one of the largest cities in Uttar Pradesh, is a major hub for industrialists and businessmen, attracting a significant influx of people. However, the city’s notorious traffic congestion has long been an issue. To address this, the Kanpur Metro was introduced, which has significantly eased traffic and contributed to the city’s real estate growth. Since the metro became operational, property values near metro stations have seen an upward trend. As the project continues to expand, a similar rise in property prices is anticipated in surrounding areas, boosting overall urban development.
Kanpur Metro: Contact details
For any queries or complaints related to the Kanpur Metro route, you can reach out using the details below:
Office address: Kanpur Metro Rail Corporation, State Textile Corporation Limited, GT Road, Near Gurudev Palace, Sharda Nagar, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh 208014
Contact Number: 0512-2246200
Housing.com POV
The Kanpur Metro project is a transformative initiative for the city, offering high-speed connectivity and reducing the long-standing traffic congestion issues. With its efficient network and modern amenities, the metro system is set to improve the daily commute for residents and visitors alike. Furthermore, the introduction of the metro has had a positive impact on Kanpur’s real estate market, particularly near metro stations. As the project progresses, the city will continue to benefit from enhanced transportation, increased property values, and overall urban development, making Kanpur a more connected and accessible city.
FAQs
Which is the nodal agency for the Kanpur Metro?
The Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation (UPMRC) is the nodal agency for the project.
Is Kanpur Metro operational?
Operations on the Kanpur Metro rail started in December 2021.
What are the operating hours of Kanpur Metro?
The Kanpur Metro operates from 6 AM to 10 PM daily, providing commuters with frequent service. Trains arrive every 5 minutes, making it a convenient and reliable option for daily transportation.
How many stations are currently operational in the Kanpur Metro?
As of now, the Kanpur Metro operates a 9-km stretch with 9 stations, from IIT-Kanpur to Moti Jheel. More stations will be added as the project progresses towards its final completion.
What is the total length of the Kanpur Metro route?
The Kanpur Metro route will span 32.385 km across two phases, with the Orange Line and Blue Line connecting key areas of the city to reduce traffic congestion and improve urban mobility.
How has the Kanpur Metro impacted real estate prices?
Property prices near Kanpur Metro stations have seen a significant increase since the metro became operational. This trend is expected to continue as the project expands, further boosting the real estate market in adjoining areas.
Is eating or drinking allowed on Kanpur Metro trains and stations?
No, eating, drinking, smoking, and chewing gum are prohibited on the Kanpur Metro premises to maintain cleanliness and a pleasant environment for all passengers.
