Project Profile: Agra Metro Rail Project

The Agra Metro Rail Project (AMRP) is a large-scale urban mass rapid transit system (MRTS) under development in Agra, Uttar Pradesh. Managed by the Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation (UPMRC), the project is engineered to deliver a modern, high-capacity transit network to alleviate severe traffic congestion and enhance connectivity to the city’s key historical and economic centers.

Technical Specifications

Phase 1 of the Agra Metro comprises two corridors. Corridor 1 is a 14 km line connecting Sikandara to the Taj East Gate, featuring a blend of 7 elevated and 6 underground stations to navigate the city’s dense heritage core. Corridor 2 is a fully elevated 15.4 km line from Agra Cantonment to Kalindi Vihar. The entire network is built on a 1,435mm standard gauge track, designed for high-speed operations. An interchange at St. John’s College station will provide seamless integration between the two lines.

The project leverages state-of-the-art technology for its core systems. The rolling stock consists of Alstom’s MOVIA metro three-car trainsets, renowned for their lightweight stainless steel construction and energy-efficient MITRAC propulsion systems. Train operations are managed by Alstom’s CITYFLO 650, a Communications-Based Train Control (CBTC) signaling solution. This advanced, moving-block system allows for shorter headways between trains, enhancing line capacity and operational safety without traditional trackside signals.

Key Takeaways

• Strategic Heritage Connectivity: The network is specifically designed to enhance connectivity to UNESCO World Heritage sites like the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort, directly supporting the city’s critical tourism-driven economy and reducing vehicular pressure on sensitive areas.
• Advanced Technology Integration: The project employs advanced CBTC signaling and modern Alstom rolling stock, establishing a new benchmark for operational efficiency, safety, and passenger experience in Indian Tier-II city metro systems.
• Sustainable Urban Development: By providing a reliable and efficient alternative to road transport, the metro aims to significantly reduce traffic congestion, lower carbon emissions, and promote integrated urban mobility in one of India’s most populous and visited cities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When will the full Agra Metro Phase 1 be operational?

While the 6 km priority corridor from Taj East Gate to Mankameshwar Temple became operational in March 2024, the entire 29.4 km Phase 1 network is projected to be fully completed and operational by 2026. Final timelines are subject to ongoing construction progress and final commissioning approvals.

Who is building the Agra Metro?

The Agra Metro project is being executed by the Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation (UPMRC). Major contracts have been awarded to several industry leaders, including Alstom for supplying the rolling stock and CBTC signaling system, Larsen & Toubro (L&T) for track work, and Sam India Builtwell for the construction of key elevated viaducts and stations.