Lucknow has experienced a steady rise in vehicular traffic, with many locals opting to commute by personal vehicles. This trend, which has taken its full shape in megacities, is further spreading to Tier II urban areas as well. But can Lucknow reverse the trend? For our medium-sized, moderate-paced state capital, public transport – still widely available, may hold the key!
To explore this, we spoke with some Lucknow residents who continue to rely on public transport. We asked them about their preferred modes of travel and the reasons behind their choices:
Lucknow Metro, a comfortable companion during summers
Since the completion of the Lucknow Metro corridor in 2019, this mass rapid transit system has stood out as the most efficient way to navigate key parts of the city. Linking the city airport with two major railway stations (Charbagh and Badshahnagar), as well as connecting important residential and commercial areas like Indira Nagar, Hazratganj, Polytechnic, and Alambagh, the metro offers a fast and reliable commute.
Paras Agarwal (25) – Lucknow Metro
“My office is near KD Singh Stadium Metro Station, and I live by Munshi Puliya. The metro is super convenient for me, especially in summer with the AC comfort.”
E-rickshaws: sustainable, affordable & widely present across the city
Battery-powered rickshaws are widely available across most city areas, accessible on both main roads and smaller sub-routes. Despite their increasing numbers, these e-rickshaws remain a highly affordable, convenient mode of transport and offer an eco-friendly alternative to traditional vehicles. Additionally, they’ve created significant employment opportunities for local drivers.
Zareena (52) – E-rickshaws
“I sell clothes across neighbourhoods, and e-rickshaws make it easy. They’re everywhere, and I rely on them due to night blindness; the drivers are usually very helpful.”
Vikram Tempos, Lucknow age-old mode of travel
Fuel-operated auto rickshaws and Vikram tempos are among the oldest forms of public transport still running successfully within Lucknow. Unlike e-rickshaws, which lack designated routes, Vikram tempos operate on fixed routes, providing structured connectivity across the city. While some people may avoid them due to their noise levels and the tendency for drivers to overstuff passengers, Vikram tempos continue to play an essential role in Lucknow’s public transport network.
Pradeep Batra (37) – Vikram Tempos
“I’ve used Vikram tempos for over 20 years to get to my shop in Daliganj. They may be crowded, but they’re reliable and run right from my area to my shop.”
Bike Taxis: On-demand and on-time!
Bike taxis have been a boon for many in Lucknow, offering a quick and efficient way to navigate the city’s busy streets. With app-based booking, they provide easy access to rides, even during peak hours when other modes of transport may get stuck. The convenience of doorstep pick-up and drop-off makes them an attractive choice, especially for those needing flexibility. Notably, women have also started opting for bike taxis, as the backing of reputable cab companies instils trust in the safety and reliability of their riders.
Rakhi Khatter (44) – Rapido Bike Taxis
“I live 7 km from Indira Nagar and travel to the main city often. Bike taxis are affordable and take me exactly where I need to go.”
Here’s the take:
As traffic volumes continue to grow, congestion on Lucknow’s roads has become a challenge for the city. However, the stories shared by locals who rely on public transport reveal an encouraging trend: with a wide variety of available options, the shift to public commuting could help ease this strain on the roads.
Moreover, many public transport modes now operate on cleaner energy, offering an environmentally friendly choice that contributes to a healthier city. Thus, for those who regularly commute by private vehicle, exploring public transport options could bring unexpected ease and convenience, all while supporting a more sustainable cityscape.
