Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation (UPMRCL) plans to introduce 15 fully driverless trainsets on Lucknow Metro Line 2, the East-West Corridor, and has floated a tender for their manufacture and supply. The move forms part of Phase 1B of the metro expansion and is intended to increase service frequency and capacity for daily commuters. UPMRCL set out the procurement requirement as work on the corridor progresses.

The East-West Corridor will operate using unattended train operation (UTO), enabling trains to run automatically without a driver in the cabin. The system will incorporate communication-based train control (CBTC), artificial intelligence (AI)-based predictive maintenance and real-time monitoring to improve safety and operational efficiency. Procurement of trainsets is expected to support higher service frequency and shorter headways, while the advanced signalling and maintenance systems aim to reduce disruptions and improve asset utilisation.

The corridor will measure 11.165 kilometre (km) and will include 12 stations, comprising seven underground stations and five elevated stations. The project received Union Cabinet approval in August 2025 and is being developed as Phase 1B of the Lucknow Metro project. UPMRCL indicated that the new trainsets will be configured to suit the route profile and station design to ensure smooth boarding and alighting for passengers.

The introduction of driverless trains and supporting technologies is expected to change daily travel patterns by offering faster and more reliable journeys for office goers, students and rail passengers. Authorities foresee reductions in travel time on congested corridors and improved connectivity between residential and commercial areas. The procurement tender is a step towards modernising the network and enhancing commuter experience as the city expands its rapid transit capacity.