The long-awaited 15.51-kilometer elevated railway corridor connecting Anwarganj and Mandhana in Kanpur is finally moving toward reality. Following a significant anti-encroachment drive on July 15, 2026, authorities cleared illegal structures along GT Road, specifically between Kalyanpur and IIT Kanpur, which had stalled progress on this crucial infrastructure project for years. The move ensures the path is now clear for the development of the high-priority rail link.
- Project Scope: 15.51 km elevated track between Anwarganj and Mandhana.
- Budget: Estimated at ₹1115 crore, with 50% funding already released.
- Objective: Eliminating 18 railway crossings to reduce city traffic congestion.
- Key Development: Construction of a new ‘Atal Station’ with a Metro skywalk.
- Timeline: Construction expected to complete within two years of commencement.
Strategic Infrastructure and Land Acquisition
The project, approved by the Railway Board, is a joint effort involving the Uttar Pradesh Government and the executing agency, Ravi Infrabuild Projects Limited (RIPL). While the Railways already possesses 98.5% of the necessary land, the final 1.5% involves the acquisition of 22,306 square meters from 70 rural landowners. This final phase involves settling 200 registries valued at ₹35.87 crore. By elevating the tracks, the city aims to solve the chronic traffic delays caused by 18 manned railway crossings that currently bisect densely populated areas.
New Transit Hub and Operational Changes
A major highlight of this project is the decommissioning of the existing Rawatpur and Kalyanpur stations. These will be replaced by a modern facility named ‘Atal Station’, located near the Pulse Research Center. This new hub will feature a dedicated skywalk providing seamless connectivity to the Kanpur Metro, significantly enhancing the passenger experience.
As the project progresses, officials expect the Railway Board to grant a two-year construction block within the next 30 to 60 days. During this period, travelers should anticipate operational adjustments. Specifically, major services such as the Kalindi Express and Barauni Express will be diverted, and various passenger trains will be rerouted via Kasganj to Mandhana. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to lay the foundation stone for the project, marking a new era of rail connectivity for Kanpur.