Union Cabinet Approves Lucknow Metro Phase-1B & Tato-II Hydro Power Projects – Massive Infrastructure Push
On 12 August 2025, the Union Cabinet, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, gave a green signal to two major infrastructure projects aimed at reshaping connectivity and energy supply in India. These are the Phase-1B of the Lucknow Metro Rail Project in Uttar Pradesh and the 700 MW Tato-II Hydro Electric Project in Arunachal Pradesh. With a combined investment exceeding ₹13,900 crores, these projects underline the government's commitment to sustainable urban development and power generation in challenging terrains.
Both projects are poised to create jobs, improve public infrastructure, and boost the local economy—particularly in historic urban hubs and border state regions. Let’s break down the key details of each initiative and understand how they will benefit citizens and the nation alike.
🚇 Lucknow Metro Rail Project – Phase-1B
The Lucknow Metro Phase-1B project will significantly expand the city’s existing metro network, bringing modern, efficient public transportation to underserved areas rich in culture and commerce. This phase will stretch over 11.165 kilometers and include 12 stations, designed both underground and elevated to suit the city’s urban layout.
| Lucknow Metro Rail Project – Phase-1B Overview | |
|---|---|
| Project Name | Lucknow Metro Phase-1B |
| Total Length | 11.165 km |
| Total Stations | 12 (7 underground, 5 elevated) |
| Total Project Outlay | ₹5,801 Crores |
| Implementing Agency | Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation (UPMRC) |
| Completion Timeline | To be announced |
Why is Phase-1B Important?
- Connects Core Areas: The metro will pass through important commercial, cultural, and healthcare zones of Old Lucknow such as Aminabad, Chowk, Yahiyaganj, and King George’s Medical University.
- Tourism Boost: Iconic attractions like Bara Imambara, Chota Imambara, Bhool Bhulaiya, and Rumi Darwaza will be more accessible to tourists.
- Cuisines & Culture: Local culinary hubs known for Nawabi delicacies will benefit from better footfall and accessibility.
- Decongestion: Metro will reduce vehicular traffic, travel time, and pollution in densely populated areas.
- Inclusive Transport: Improved public transport access for all socio-economic sections of society.
Environmental & Economic Benefits
- Reduction in greenhouse gas emissions due to shift from diesel/petrol vehicles to electric metro rail.
- Stimulates local business and employment through better connectivity to city hubs, railway stations, and the airport.
- Promotes urban sustainability and smart transport planning as per national urban policy.
⚡ 700 MW Tato-II Hydro Electric Project in Arunachal Pradesh
In a major move to strengthen India’s power generation in the North-East, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) approved an investment of ₹8,146.21 crores for the ambitious Tato-II Hydro Electric Project (HEP) in the scenic but remote Shi Yomi District of Arunachal Pradesh. This project underscores India’s push to harness renewable energy and elevate local infrastructure.
| Tato-II HEP Project Highlight | |
|---|---|
| Total Capacity | 700 MW (4 units of 175 MW each) |
| Annual Generation | 2,738.06 Million Units (MU) |
| Project Cost | ₹8,146.21 Crores |
| Time to Completion | 72 Months (6 years) |
| Implementing Agency | North Eastern Electric Power Corporation (NEEPCO) and Government of Arunachal Pradesh (Joint Venture) |
Infrastructure Benefits
- Revenue to State: Arunachal Pradesh will get 12% free power and 1% will be allocated to the Local Area Development Fund (LADF).
- Road Development: Construction of 32.88 km of new roads and bridges to improve regional connectivity.
- Social Impact: Budget earmarked for building hospitals, marketplaces, schools, and sporting grounds.
- Job Creation: Direct and indirect employment boosts for local residents and MSMEs.
- Strategic Value: Enhances India’s grid balancing, especially in the North-East and beyond.
Central Assistance & Support
- Budgetary Allocation: ₹458.79 crores for constructing necessary roads and transmission infrastructure.
- Equity Infusion: ₹436.13 crores central assistance to support Arunachal Pradesh’s equity share.
The Tato-II project will play a crucial role in achieving the goals of Aatmanirbhar Bharat by empowering remote regions, encouraging local participation, and reducing dependency on fossil fuels.
Recent Cabinet Decisions Worth Noting
- In July 2025, the Union Cabinet approved the Research, Development & Innovation (RDI) scheme with an outlay of ₹1 lakh crore to promote high-end research investments.
- In August 2025, ₹3,200 crores were released under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) to aid farmers across the country.
These project approvals reflect the government’s multipronged development approach — combining infrastructure, clean energy, technology, and agriculture to build a more efficient and inclusive India.
Key Project Info Summary
| Project | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization Name | Government of India (Union Cabinet) |
| Post Name | Infrastructure Project Approval |
| Total Vacancies | NA (Infrastructure Development Project) |
| Qualification | NA |
| Age Limit | NA |
| Start & End Date | Approved on 12 August 2025 (Project timelines vary) |
| Application Mode | NA |
| Official Website | https://www.india.gov.in |
Final Words
With strategic focus on both urban connectivity and sustainable energy, the latest cabinet approvals for Lucknow Metro Phase-1B and Tato-II Hydro Electric Project clearly indicate India's momentum toward infrastructure modernization. These projects are not just about metros and megawatts—they represent access, opportunity, and growth for millions.
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