Former Union Minister Sriprakash Jaiswal Passes Away at 81: A Life Dedicated to Kanpur’s Development

Kanpur, 29 November 2025: Former Union Coal Minister and three-time MP Sriprakash Jaiswal passed away on Friday evening at the age of 81. Known for his deep connection to Kanpur, Jaiswal served as a central minister for ten years and was instrumental in several transformative projects for the city and its people.

A Visionary for Kanpur’s Connectivity
Born and raised in the lanes of Kanpur, Jaiswal understood the city’s needs intimately. Recognizing the lack of direct train connectivity to Delhi, he introduced the Shram Shakti Express, linking Kanpur directly with Delhi. He also launched the Udyog Nagri Express to connect the industrial city to Mumbai, later extending it to Pratapgarh. The Chitrakoot Express was another milestone of his initiative. These trains greatly facilitated labor movement and supported industrial growth.

At a time when flights from Kanpur to Delhi were discontinued, Jaiswal ensured the resumption of air services, significantly improving the city’s connectivity. During his tenure as Union Minister, he also played a key role in declaring the Ganga as a National River on 4 November 2008, a matter of great importance for Kanpur.

Infrastructure and Urban Development
Jaiswal’s contributions extended beyond trains. He facilitated the establishment of the Neyveli Power Plant in Ghatampur, oversaw the expansion of the Ramadevi Highway, and initiated flyovers that eased city traffic, especially for heavy vehicles. He also supported solar power initiatives in Bilhaur under NTPC. Several bridges and rail overpasses, including the Shivnarayan Tandon Setu in Cantt and COD rail overbridge, were built during his tenure, improving urban mobility.

A Passion for Cricket
Politics aside, Jaiswal had a lifelong love for cricket. During his college years at DAV, he captained the college cricket team for a year, reflecting his enduring passion for the sport.

Legacy
Sriprakash Jaiswal’s initiatives transformed Kanpur’s connectivity, infrastructure, and industrial outreach. Remembered as a leader who balanced politics with people-centric development, his contributions have left a lasting imprint on the city he loved.