Lucknow-Kanpur Rapid Rail Corridor to Cut Travel Time to 50 Minutes, DPR Work Begins

In a move that could significantly transform intercity connectivity in Uttar Pradesh, the Uttar Pradesh Housing Department has initiated efforts to develop a high-speed Rapid Rail Corridor between Lucknow and Kanpur, inspired by the successful Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut RRTS model.

The department has directed the Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation (UPMRC) and the Unnao-Shuklaganj Development Authority to begin preparing a Detailed Project Report (DPR). This report will assess the technical and financial viability of the proposed corridor and outline the route, estimated cost, and expected ridership. Once completed and approved, the project aims to reduce the current nearly two-hour travel time to just 50 minutes.

Central Government Support Likely

The central government is expected to provide financial support for this ambitious project, which is being touted as a major step toward building a modern, fast, and safe mass transport system across key urban hubs in the state.

However, the project will move to the execution phase only after receiving in-principle approval from the Uttar Pradesh state government. Following approval, a private consultancy will be selected through a tendering process to develop the DPR in detail.

Proposed Route and Integration with Metro Network

As per initial proposals, the rapid rail corridor will span 67 kilometres, beginning at Naya Ganj in Kanpur and ending at Amausi in Lucknow. Both terminal points are strategically chosen due to their proximity to existing metro networks, ensuring smooth multi-modal connectivity for daily commuters.

Parallel Expressway Also in Progress

In addition to the proposed rapid rail line, a six-lane expressway between Lucknow and Kanpur is currently under development. This 63-km-long expressway will pass through Bani, Kantha, and Amarsas, ending at Azad Marg in Kanpur. The expressway is expected to further boost regional mobility and provide an alternative high-speed option for travelers.

Transforming Urban Mobility in UP

The rapid rail and expressway projects together reflect a growing focus on infrastructure-led development in Uttar Pradesh. If both projects are completed on schedule, they are likely to enhance daily commuting, stimulate economic activity, and improve the overall quality of life for millions of people in the region.