Commuters in Unnao are facing significant travel disruptions as the Awas Vikas Railway Crossing, officially known as Railway Crossing 35B, has been closed for urgent maintenance work. The closure began on Thursday, July 23, 2026, at 9 AM and is expected to remain in effect until July 26, 2026, as engineering teams work to upgrade the track infrastructure.
Key highlights regarding the closure include:
- Duration: Three days, from July 23 to July 26, 2026.
- Reason: Essential track repairs, including the replacement of old boulders and plates.
- Impact: Approximately 50,000 residents and dozens of villages are affected.
- Detour: Motorists must take a two-kilometer alternative route to reach key destinations.
Details of the Repair Work
Senior Section Engineer Mahesh Kumar Meena confirmed that the project is a critical safety initiative. The repair work is focused on replacing aged track components to ensure long-term stability and safety for passing trains. Officials have stated that the work is scheduled to proceed through Friday, July 24, and Saturday, July 25, with the team aiming to finalize all technical requirements within the designated three-day window. The District Magistrate’s office has been formally briefed on the timeline to ensure coordination during this period.
Impact on Local Commuters
For the local population, the closure has brought about immediate logistical challenges. Railway Crossing 35B serves as a vital artery for residents traveling to essential locations such as Sadar Bazar, Kotwali, the District Hospital, and the city of Kanpur. With the crossing blocked, many motorists are now required to take a two-kilometer detour, leading to heavy traffic congestion on alternative roads.
Local residents have expressed frustration, noting that the lack of prior public notification caught many by surprise. There are also growing safety concerns as pedestrians have been observed crossing the railway tracks directly to avoid the lengthy detour. Authorities are urging the public to exercise caution and follow the designated diversion routes until the maintenance work is successfully completed and the crossing is reopened for public use.