By Neeraj Kumar
Patna: The much-awaited Patna Metro Rail Project is set to become operational by Independence Day, 15 August 2025, Urban Development Minister and BJP MLA Nitin Nabin confirmed on Monday. Addressing the media, Nabin said the Bihar government is making rapid progress on the project, which aims to transform urban transportation in the state capital.
Government Allocates Funds for Priority Corridor
Nabin highlighted that the Bihar Cabinet had approved Rs 150 crore for the Priority Corridor earlier. An additional Rs 400 crore has been allocated through the supplementary budget to ensure the timely completion of the project. “By next August, the people of Patna will finally be able to enjoy metro train services,” he said.
Priority Corridor Nearing Completion
The 6.5-km Priority Corridor features five elevated metro stations at Malahi Pakadi, Khemnichak, Bhootnath, Zeromile, and New ISBT. Civil work on this section is nearly complete, with the superstructure in its final stages.
Two Corridors Under Construction
The Patna Metro project includes two primary corridors:
- Danapur to Khemnichak Corridor (18 km)
- Includes 14 metro stations, with 8 elevated and 6 underground.
- Patna Junction to Pataliputra Bus Terminal Corridor (14 km)
- Features 12 stations, including 7 underground and 5 elevated.
Nabin noted that construction on both corridors is progressing steadily.
Pending Works and International Collaboration
Despite significant advancements, tasks such as laying tracks, procuring metro bogies, and installing electric lines remain. The Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA) is assisting with these critical components. Escalators and other essential infrastructure will also be installed at metro stations.
Trial Runs and Project Valuation
Once pending works are completed, bogies will be delivered for testing, and trial runs will be conducted over several months. These tests aim to ensure the safety and efficiency of metro operations before the official launch. The Patna Metro Rail Project has an estimated value of Rs 13,000 crore.
Transforming Urban Transport
With its launch in August 2025, the Patna Metro is expected to alleviate traffic congestion and provide a faster, more reliable mode of transport for residents.