Union Cabinet Clears Lucknow Metro Phase-1B: 11.165 km Expansion to Transform Old City Transit
New Delhi, Aug 12 (TheTrendingPeople) — In a major push for urban mobility and heritage city development, the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Tuesday approved Phase-1B of the Lucknow Metro Rail Project. The expansion will cover 11.165 km with 12 new stations, seven underground and five elevated, at an investment of ₹5,801 crore.
Once operational, this phase will take Lucknow’s metro network to 34 km, significantly improving accessibility for the oldest and most densely populated parts of the city.
Seamless Connectivity to Heritage, Healthcare, and Commercial Hubs
According to the Cabinet communique, Phase-1B will link Aminabad, Yahiyaganj, Pandeyganj, and Chowk — bustling commercial markets — with King George’s Medical University, a critical healthcare hub. Tourists will also gain easier access to landmarks such as the Bara Imambara, Chota Imambara, Clock Tower, and Rumi Darwaza.
The corridor is expected to not only improve daily commuting but also open up Old Lucknow’s culinary heritage and handicraft hubs to greater footfall, boosting local business.
Addressing Traffic Congestion and Pollution
By providing a mass rapid transit alternative to road travel, Phase-1B aims to decongest the narrow, traffic-heavy lanes of old Lucknow. The government statement highlighted that reduced vehicular movement will cut travel times, improve road safety, and lower carbon emissions.
"With Phase-1B, we are bringing world-class metro connectivity to the heart of Old Lucknow, easing the daily struggles of commuters while preserving the city's unique cultural fabric," a senior official from the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs said.
Economic and Social Impact
The expansion is projected to:
- Boost tourism by linking historical attractions directly via metro
- Stimulate local economies by increasing accessibility to small businesses
- Improve job opportunities in retail, hospitality, and transport sectors near metro stations
- Enhance equity in public transport by ensuring affordable mobility options across socio-economic groups
Transport experts believe this project could serve as a model for integrating heritage zones into modern transport systems without compromising historical integrity.
Timeline and Implementation
- Phase-1A Completion: Lucknow Metro’s first phase began operations in 2017, covering 23 km
- Phase-1B Announcement: August 12, 2025 — Union Cabinet approval granted
- Construction & Rollout: Expected to begin within the financial year, with a target completion window of 4-5 years, subject to land acquisition and archaeological clearances
Background: Lucknow Metro’s Journey
The Lucknow Metro Rail Corporation (LMRC) was formed in 2013, with Phase-1A inaugurated by the Prime Minister in 2017. The metro has since become a preferred commuting option for many residents, known for its punctuality, safety, and clean stations.
Phase-1B represents the first major expansion into the Old City — a zone historically underserved by modern mass transit due to its dense population, narrow streets, and heritage conservation requirements.
Final Thoughts from TheTrendingPeople.com
The Cabinet’s green light for Lucknow Metro Phase-1B marks a turning point for urban connectivity in heritage cities. By integrating old Lucknow’s markets, monuments, and medical hubs into the metro grid, the government aims to balance modernization with preservation. The ₹5,801 crore investment is not just in infrastructure but in improving quality of life, economic vibrancy, and cultural accessibility for residents and visitors alike.