Agra : The sustained efforts of the Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation Ltd. (UPMRC) in environmental protection are now showing tangible results. According to the National Clean Air Survey 2025, conducted by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Uttar Pradesh cities performed impressively, with Agra ranking third and Kanpur fifth among cities with populations exceeding one million. Both cities are currently witnessing large-scale civil construction of UPMRC metro projects.
Agra Metro stations have already received the ‘Platinum’ rating from the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) for their eco-friendly initiatives, the highest recognition a construction project can receive from an environmental perspective.
Civil construction is often considered a major contributor to pollution, but UPMRC has implemented strong measures to control it from the outset. Construction sites are regularly equipped with anti-smog guns, water sprinklers from tankers, wheel washing at RMC plants, systematic barricading, and mechanical brooming. Cleaning of main roads and construction sites, lane mechanical sweeping, and dust control measures have significantly contributed to improved air quality.
Additionally, promotion of green and eco-friendly transport systems and the development of green belts have yielded positive results in pollution control. It is notable that these achievements came while civil construction was ongoing in both Kanpur and Agra Metro projects. This underscores UPMRC’s commitment to pollution management and sustainable practices.
UPMRC Managing Director Sushil Kumar said, “Environmental protection is at the core of our metro development projects. Compared to other public transport options, the metro is the most eco-friendly, operating on a zero-carbon emission system. Agra Metro not only focuses on pollution control during construction but also provides green and sustainable commuting options to passengers, contributing to reduced carbon emissions. UPMRC will continue to work diligently in this direction.”
Key Environmental Initiatives by UPMRC:
-
100% LED lighting in Agra Metro stations
-
Regenerative braking system in trains and lifts, saving nearly 45% energy
-
Rainwater harvesting pits on viaducts to maximize water conservation
-
HVAC-based air conditioning control system that adjusts cooling based on passenger numbers, reducing carbon dioxide emissions
Construction sites have also implemented regular water sprinkling, wheel washing, barricading, and mechanical brooming. These innovations and measures have positioned Agra and Kanpur Metro projects as environmentally sustainable and capable urban transport systems.
The achievements highlight how infrastructure development can progress without compromising environmental standards, offering a blueprint for sustainable urban transport across India.
#AgraMetro #KanpurMetro #UPMRC #CleanAir2025 #SustainableTransport #GreenMetro #EcoFriendly #AirQualityImprovement #SmartCities #UrbanMobility
