Kanpur Metro has implemented a series of environmental protection measures at stations under the balance section of corridor-1 (Kanpur Central–Naubasta). Five elevated stations between Baradevi and Naubasta are designed to maximize solar energy use through pre-engineered building (PEB) structures for platform roofs. These PEB structures cover large spans without central pillars, offering aesthetic appeal and cost-effectiveness. Translucent sheets allow natural sunlight on platforms throughout the day, reducing dependence on artificial lighting and yielding significant electricity savings.
Energy-Efficient Design and Ventilation
At the concourse level, stations feature open, well-ventilated designs with extensive use of windows and perforated panels. This contributes to energy conservation and reduces carbon emissions.
Green Cover and Rainwater Harvesting
Approximately 1,200 square metres of greenery have been developed beneath the elevated Baradevi–Naubasta section, enhancing visual appeal and controlling air pollution. Rainwater harvesting systems channel water from the viaduct drainage to plants in the median below.
Innovative Technologies
Uttar Pradesh Metro has introduced regenerative braking technology in trains and lifts to recover and reuse energy. Metro trains are equipped with CO₂ sensor-based HVAC control systems, enabling energy savings of 12–16%. A 1 MW rooftop solar plant at the Kanpur Metro depot and about 35,000 square metres of green cover have been developed. The depot operates a zero discharge system for complete wastewater recycling.
Operational Energy-Saving Measures
Other measures include LED lighting across all stations, variable voltage variable frequency (VVVF) drives in lifts and escalators, escalator crawling or sleep mode, energy monitoring, and a building management system (BMS) with timer-controlled lighting.
Recognition and Awards
The Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) awarded a platinum rating to all operational metro stations of Kanpur Metro. In 2025, IIT Kanpur Metro Station received a Certificate of Merit from President Droupadi Murmu for outstanding energy conservation performance.
Sushil Kumar, managing director of Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation (UPMRC), stated, “Metro is the best friend of the environment among public transport systems as it operates with zero carbon emissions. Kanpur Metro has prioritized environmental conservation from the very beginning and introduced several innovations. The five newly developed elevated stations from Baradevi to Naubasta are highly efficient from the perspectives of design, aesthetics, environment, and cost. This recognition reflects the national acknowledgment of Kanpur Metro’s continuous innovations and efforts in environmental protection.”
