Shri Kumar Keshav, former MD of Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation, addressed Traffic Controller trainees at the Indian Rail Transport Institute, sharing significant insights from the rapid execution of the Lucknow Metro project. He showcases engineering challenges, citizen cooperation, and how goal and dedication led to one of India’s fastest metro rollouts.
Introduction:
On the concluding day of the intensive training program for Traffic Controller candidates at the Indian Rail Transport Institute, Shri Kumar Keshav — the former Managing Director of Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation (UPMRCL) — delivered an insightful and motivational speech that connected deeply with the young aspirants.
Currently serving as the CEO of the General Consultant (GC) company “Deutsche Bahn” under the National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC), Shri Keshav used the platform to share his journey of launching and leading the Lucknow Metro project, which remains one of India’s landmark urban transport success stories.
Building the Lucknow Metro: From Vision to Reality:
Reflecting on his tenure with UPMRCL, he recalled how the foundation stone of the Lucknow Metro project was laid in 2014. Within just three years, the first operational corridor — from Transport Nagar to Charbagh — was inaugurated in 2017, setting a new benchmark in speed, efficiency, and execution in metro rail development across India.
He emphasized how this rapid turnaround not only became a milestone for the state of Uttar Pradesh but also transformed urban mobility in Lucknow, paving the way for integrated, modern, and accessible transportation systems in emerging cities.
Engineering Feats and Technical Brilliance:
Shri Kumar Keshav delved into the project’s engineering complexities, shedding light on some of the most challenging spans constructed during the corridor’s development. These included:
- Cantilever Span at Mawaiya: A sophisticated structural solution where construction was executed without impacting the busy road below.
- Metro Span Over the Gomti River: An iconic structure balancing aesthetics, function, and technical accuracy.
- Span Over Indira Bridge: A coordination-heavy task that demanded precision and timing.
- Construction at Awadh Rotary: Perhaps the toughest challenge, where construction had to navigate through tight curves and traffic-heavy zones.
In each case, he pointed out, the work was carried out without halting existing road traffic, showcasing not only engineering prowess but also meticulous planning and teamwork.
Public Cooperation and Civic Patience: A Key to Success:
One of the key highlights of Shri Kumar Keshav’s address was his heartfelt appreciation for the people of Lucknow. He acknowledged that despite numerous disruptions and road diversions during construction, residents consistently showed understanding and patience.
He also stressed that such public-private synergy is essential for any large-scale infrastructure project in India, especially when it involves high-density urban areas.
Leadership Lessons for Future Controllers:
Through his engaging storytelling, Shri Kumar Keshav imparted valuable lessons to the trainees. He encouraged them to look beyond the console and signals, and to embrace their roles as crucial enablers of public trust, safety, and efficiency in a complex and evolving transport system.
- He further emphasized:
- Timely decision-making
- Empathy for commuters
- Coordination with ground teams
- Crisis management and adaptability
He concluded his address by urging the trainees to be proactive leaders rather than reactive operators, reminding them that their roles are not just technical but human-centric.
PIB Clears Lucknow Metro Phase 1B:
The Public Investment Board (PIB) has given its approval for the 12-km East-West Corridor of the Lucknow Metro under Phase 1B, stretching from Charbagh to Vasant Kunj. Awaiting the final clearance from the Union Cabinet, this extension marks a significant milestone in the expansion of metro connectivity in Uttar Pradesh’s capital. The corridor will include 12 strategically designed stations—seven underground and five elevated—intended to serve lakhs of commuters daily and improve connectivity between Old Lucknow and newly emerging areas.
- Corridor Length: 11.165 km
- Number of Stations: 12 (7 underground, 5 elevated)
- Expected Daily Ridership: Additional 200,000 passengers
- Areas Served: Aminabad, Alambagh, Faizabad, Charbagh
- Connectivity Enhancements: Foot Overbridges (FoBs) and underpasses at key interchange points
East-West Line Project Overview:
This Phase I-B extension is designed to meet the surging transportation demands of the city. Currently, the operational Lucknow Metro line serves around 80,000 passengers per day. The new East-West line will significantly boost public mobility, especially in the city’s most densely populated commercial and residential zones. The careful placement of stations ensures smooth interchanges with other transport modes, addressing longstanding urban mobility challenges.
- Project Cost: Rs. 5,801 Crores
- Objective: Decongest road traffic, reduce pollution, and expand public transport coverage
- Green Features: Rooftop solar installations for stations to reduce energy consumption
- Sustainability Focus: Use of renewable energy and eco-friendly construction practices
With its final nod pending from the Union Cabinet, this extension is poised to transform urban transit in Lucknow. The development reflects a strong commitment to creating a sustainable, accessible, and efficient metro system that aligns with the broader national goals of smart and green urban infrastructure.
Conclusion:
Shri Kumar Keshav’s address not only inspired the future traffic controllers but also served as a powerful reminder of how leadership, teamwork, and community cooperation can drive transformative change. His insights into the Lucknow Metro project offered a real-world lesson in overcoming challenges with vision, discipline, and public engagement.
Source: UPMRC – Press Release | Images Credit: UPMRC
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