Lucknow’s second metro corridor has moved closer to execution after Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation floated a Rs 4.92 billion tender for constructing five elevated stations, marking the launch of Phase 1B of the city’s metro expansion. According to the tender, the project covers the design and construction of a 4.6-km elevated viaduct from Thakurganj to Vasantkunj. It includes five elevated stations—Thakurganj, Balaganj, Sarfarazganj, Musa Bagh and Vasantkunj—along with a 740-metre ramp connecting the main line to the depot. The scope of work spans civil structures, architectural finishes, pre-engineered buildings, water supply, drainage, fire-fighting systems, and complete electrical and mechanical installations. UPMRC has set a 30-month completion timeline from the project start date. Tender documents were released on the government e-portal on 1 January, with bid submissions closing on 2 February. A mandatory pre-bid meeting is scheduled for 12 January, while technical bids will be opened on 3 February. The tender lays down stringent eligibility criteria, requiring bidders to demonstrate strong financial health, including minimum net worth and liquidity, as well as a proven track record of completing large metro or viaduct projects worth hundreds of crores over the past seven years. In line with national policy, the tender emphasises the Make in India directive, requiring bidders to declare local content in their proposals. Preference will be given to Class-I local suppliers with over 50 per cent local value addition. Provisions aligned with central procurement rules also address security restrictions for bidders from countries sharing land borders with India. The full second corridor of the Lucknow Metro will span 11.165 km, comprising 4.286 km of elevated track and 6.879 km underground, with 12 stations—seven underground and five elevated—serving heritage precincts and emerging residential areas. The corridor’s estimated cost stands at Rs 58.01 billion, with an overall planned completion timeline of five years. Once operational, Phase 1B is expected to significantly enhance urban mobility and support Lucknow’s expanding residential and commercial zones.