The Uttar Pradesh Cabinet has approved the modified Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the Lucknow Metro Rail Project Phase-1B East-West Corridor extension from Charbagh to Vasant Kunj. Additionally, the Cabinet has greenlit the DPR for the expansion of the Aqua Line. Both proposals are now forwarded to the Government of India for advanced approval.
More Details:
As per the provisions of the New Metro Rail Policy – 2017 issued by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Government of India in September 2017, the modified DPR for the Lucknow Metro Rail Project Phase-1B (East-West Corridor) prepared by the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation was made available.
Lucknow Metro Rail Project Phase-1B:
- As per the new Metro Rail Policy – 2017 issued by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, the implementation of the Lucknow Metro Rail Project Phase-1B (East-West Corridor) is to be carried out in accordance with the ‘Equity Sharing Model’ (a 50:50 equity participation model between the Central and State Governments).
- Additionally, the proposal for obtaining external funding through loans from the Central Government for the remaining financial support, beyond the ‘equity,’ has also been approved by the Cabinet.
Brief about the Extension:
- The implementation of Lucknow Metro Rail Project Phase-1 B (East-West Corridor) from Charbagh Railway Station to Vasant Kunj will be carried out by Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation Ltd.
- According to the prepared/modified DPR by Delhi Metro Rail Corporation, the length of Lucknow Metro Rail Project Phase-1B (East-West Corridor) from Charbagh Railway Station to Vasant Kunj is 11.165 km, out of which 4.286 km is elevated and 6.879 km is at ground level.
- A total of 12 stations are proposed for this corridor, including 5 elevated and 7 ground-level stations. The project’s completion period is set for 30th June 2027, with an estimated completion cost of ₹5801.05 crore.
Financial Specification:
For the project, a Financial Internal Rate of Return (FIRR) of 3.9% (along with property development at 13.16%) and an Economic Internal Rate of Return (EIRR) of 15.45% (as per the provisions of the New Metro Rail Policy-2017, the minimum EIRR for the project is determined at 14%) have been specified.
Cabinet also approved DPR for the expansion of Aqua Line:
- The Cabinet has approved the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the expansion of the Aqua Line Metro corridor from Depot Station to MMTH Bodaki site.
- The length of this extension is 2.6 kilometres, with an estimated cost of ₹416.34 crore. Additionally, the Cabinet has allocated funds in the budget under the designated account for financing 20% of the project’s cost by the Uttar Pradesh state government.
- Following the approval by the State Cabinet, the proposal will be sent to the Government of India for their approval and financial support in accordance with their directives.
Financial Specification:
- It is noteworthy that the funding for this project is proposed to be allocated as follows:
- 20% financial support from the Government of India,
- 20% financial support from the Uttar Pradesh state government, and
- 60% financial support through grants/loans/external funding.
- The project will significantly enhance transportation infrastructure and provide seamless connectivity across various modes of transportation.
- It will contribute to the development of the region and create both direct and indirect employment opportunities.
Conclusion:
The approval of Lucknow Metro’s East-West Corridor extension and Aqua Line expansion by the Uttar Pradesh Cabinet signifies a significant leap forward in the state’s transportation infrastructure. These projects promise improved connectivity and sustainable urban development, setting the stage for enhanced economic growth and prosperity. As these initiatives progress, they showcase the government’s commitment to modernising public transit systems and driving progress in Uttar Pradesh’s transportation sector.
Source: UP Govt. – Press Release | Image Credit (representational): UPMRC
