Lucknow, June 24 -- The UP Metro Rail Corporation (UPMRC) has awarded a major civil construction contract to make stations of Thakurganj, Balaganj, Sarfarazganj, Musabagh and Vasant Kunj in a 4.6-km elevated Metro stretch. With GST, the total project cost is estimated at around Rs 453 crore. The new corridor is expected to provide direct Metro access to thousands of residents living in Thakurganj, Balaganj, Sarfarazganj, Musabagh and Vasant Kunj-areas that currently rely heavily on road-based transport and frequently experience traffic congestion during peak hours. In addition to the stations, the project includes an elevated viaduct stretching approximately 4.6 kilometres and a 740-metre ramp that will connect the main corridor with depot entry and exit facilities. According to UPMRC, the contract was awarded after a competitive tendering process involving detailed technical and financial evaluation of bids submitted by participating firms. Ranjit Buildcon Ltd. has been given a timeline of 24 months from the commencement of work to complete the entire package. The project involves far more than the construction of tracks and platforms. The scope of work includes architectural development, station infrastructure, pre-engineered building structures, water supply systems, sanitary installations, , fire-fighting systems, etc....