Lagatar24 Desk
Patna: Ahead of the upcoming Bihar elections, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar inaugurated the much-awaited Patna Metro Rail from the Pataliputra Bus Depot on Friday, marking a significant milestone for the state’s transport infrastructure. Deputy Chief Ministers Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha were also present at the ceremony.
Metro Ride and Launch Timeline
Following the inauguration, CM Nitish Kumar travelled on the metro up to Bhootnath station. Although the metro service has not yet opened to the general public, it will commence operations from October 7.
Patna Joins India’s Metro Network
With the launch of operations, Patna has officially become India’s 24th metro city. The metro system is expected to ease traffic congestion and boost public transport in the capital.
Blue Line Launch and Fare Details
The initial phase covers the Blue Line (Corridor-2), spanning approximately 4.5 km from ISBT Station to Bhootnath via Zero Mile. Fares have been set between ₹15 and ₹30. Trains will run every 20 minutes from 8 AM to 10 PM, with over 40 trips scheduled daily. Each three-coach train can carry up to 1,000 passengers.
Bihar’s Art and Safety Features in Coaches
The metro coaches showcase Bihar’s rich art and culture through intricate Madhubani paintings. To ensure passenger safety, each coach is equipped with 360-degree CCTV cameras, emergency buttons, and direct communication with the driver. Reserved seating is available for women and differently-abled passengers.
A 12-Year Dream Realised
The metro project, often described as Nitish Kumar’s dream initiative, was first conceptualised in 2013. It received central approval in 2014, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi laying the foundation stone in 2019.
Patna Metro Rail Corporation Limited (PMRCL) was tasked with the construction, while Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) served as the advisory body. The project, costing around ₹13,925 crore, is being funded by the Bihar government, the central government, and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
