Extended Rail Disruption on Lucknow-Kanpur Route for Critical Bridge Repairs
In a significant development for commuters and travelers, the Lucknow-Kanpur rail route will face a major disruption starting April 2, 2024. An extensive eight-hour daily mega block will be enforced until May 13, 2024, to facilitate urgent repair work on the down track of the historic railway bridge over the Ganga River at Shuklaganj, also known as Gangaghat or Kanpur left bank. This critical infrastructure project aims to enhance safety and longevity for one of the region's busiest rail corridors.
Details of the Repair Work and Historical Context
According to Sushil Jaiswal, the Public Relations Officer of the Lucknow Rail Division, the repair operations will focus on replacing iron sheets and sleepers on the down line of the 118-year-old Ganga bridge. Additionally, H-beams will be installed to reinforce the structure. The bridge, constructed in 1908, is strategically located between Kanpur Murray Company and Kanpur left bank station, serving as a vital link in the rail network. This initiative follows a previous track repair on the up line from Lucknow to Kanpur, which was completed in 2025 after a similar mega block from March 20 to April 30, as part of ongoing maintenance efforts.
Impact on Train Services and Passenger Advisory
The 42-day repair period will result in substantial changes to rail schedules, affecting a total of 55 trains. Key impacts include:
- 14 trains cancelled between Kanpur and Lucknow.
- 10 trains operated only up to Kanpur, requiring passengers to seek alternative transport for the remaining journey.
- 31 trains diverted to other routes, with altered timings and routes to accommodate the block.
Railway authorities have emphasized that these measures are necessary to ensure the bridge's structural integrity, with regular audits conducted by the Railway's audit team and chief engineer at prescribed intervals. Passengers are advised to check updated schedules and plan their travel accordingly to minimize inconvenience during this period.
