The Kanpur Metro has achieved a key milestone as the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS) has officially approved passenger operations on the 7 km underground stretch between Moti Jheel and Kanpur Central Station along Line 1. This approval allows Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation (UPMRC) to extend metro services beyond the currently operational IIT Kanpur to Moti Jheel section. The complete Line 1 spans 23.785 km and connects IIT Kanpur with Naubasta through 22 stations. ATO Mode Operations In a significant upgrade, the trains on this stretch will operate in Automatic Train Operation (ATO) mode, enhancing precision and efficiency in service. The existing IIT to Moti Jheel section already functions in ATO mode, and UPMRC has now completed the required processes to extend this technology to the new segment. Thorough Safety Checks by CMRS The CMRS, led by Commissioner Janak Kumar Garg, conducted a detailed two-day inspection of the stretch in March 2025. The safety evaluation included checks on tracks, tunnels, viaducts, stations, ramps, tunnel ventilation systems, and signaling equipment. A successful speed test was also carried out between Moti Jheel and Kanpur Central. This newly approved section features six underground stations: Moti Jheel Chunniganj Naveen Market Bada Chauraha Nayaganj Kanpur Central Metro in the Heart of Kanpur UPMRC Managing Director Sushil Kumar lauded the achievement, saying, “With all necessary technical approvals and clearances now in place, the extension of passenger services from Moti Jheel to Kanpur Central under Corridor-1 is set to commence. Completing a nearly 7 km underground section with five stations in such a short time, within one of the city’s oldest and busiest areas, is a remarkable accomplishment.” With this extension, Kanpur inches closer to completing its full east-west metro corridor, enhancing connectivity and reducing traffic congestion in the city’s core.