PREPARATIONS FOR PATNA METRO EXPANSION

PREPARATIONS FOR PATNA METRO EXPANSION

15-AUG-ENG 2

RAJIV NAYAN AGRAWAL

PATNA---------------------------Work on the Patna Metro is gaining momentum once again. The government has sanctioned ₹628.32 crore for the project, accelerating the pace of work. The Khemnichak interchange station is set to become operational this October. According to Metro officials, the station will open to the public once work on both routes at Khemnichak is completed. It is a three-level station, enabling passengers to switch trains between Corridor 1 and Corridor 2. Two routes will be available from here: one via Malahi Pakri and the other via Mithapur. However, one will have to wait a while before traveling to Mithapur.

According to official Metro sources, the superstructure for the elevated track from Mithapur to Khemnichak is complete. This section includes four stations, and their construction is currently underway. The tendering process is in progress for various works, including civil construction, tracks, escalators, and lifts. The target is to make this route operational by June 2027. Passengers on this route will be able to board and alight at Mithapur, Ramkrishna Nagar, Jaganpura, and Khemnichak stations.

A 3.1 km long elevated track is being constructed between Khemnichak and Mithapur. This route is expected to see higher passenger traffic; consequently, Patna Metro has ordered three sets of six-coach trains from Pune for this line. These three train sets are expected to arrive by December.

Reports indicate that the underground tunnel from Malahi Pakri to Patna Junction will be completed in November; only about 100 meters of construction remains. This section covers Rajendra Nagar, Moin-ul-Haq Stadium, Patna University, PMCH, Gandhi Maidan, Akashvani, and Patna Junction, spanning a total length of 10.54 km. Tendering processes for civil works and other associated tasks have been initiated, with a completion target set for 2028. The total length of the Patna Metro network is 32.50 km, covering the area from Danapur to Patna City. Work on the elevated track from Saguna More to Rukanpura is ongoing, while an underground tunnel is planned to connect Patna Junction with Mithapur; work on this latter section has not yet commenced.