Is Bihar's First Pedestrian Subway Nearing Completion in Patna?

Synopsis
Bihar is set to unveil its first underground pedestrian subway, an ambitious project aimed at easing traffic around Patna Junction. Inspected by Minister Nitin Nabin, this subway will enhance pedestrian access and symbolize the city's modernization efforts. Will it change the way Patna commuters navigate the city?
Key Takeaways
- First pedestrian subway in Bihar.
- Designed to reduce traffic congestion.
- Includes modern facilities like travellators and escalators.
- Part of the Smart City initiative.
- Expected completion before Assembly elections.
Patna, May 3 (NationPress) Bihar's inaugural underground pedestrian subway, currently being built near Patna Junction, was assessed on Friday by the State Road Construction Minister Nitin Nabin.
The initiative, part of the Smart City project, aims to link the Multi-Modal Hub near the General Post Office, Golambar, to the eastern entrance of the Mahavir Temple adjacent to the Patna Junction railway station.
Directed by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, this project is designed to alleviate congestion and traffic issues stemming from vehicle parking around Patna Junction.
"This visionary project initiated by our Chief Minister Nitish Kumar aims to improve traffic flow and enhance pedestrian convenience. It is the first of its kind in Bihar," stated Minister Nabin during his inspection of the ongoing project.
The 440-metre-long subway will include four travellators totaling 148 metres, two escalators for smooth vertical movement, and two lifts strategically placed: one near Mahavir Mandir and the other by the multi-level parking area. Additionally, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems will be installed to ensure commuter comfort in the underground setting.
Minister Nabin emphasized that vehicles will be parked at the Multi-Modal Hub, thus reducing congestion around Patna Junction.
Pedestrians will utilize the subway to access the station directly, avoiding busy roads, as per the Minister's remarks.
The Multi-Modal Hub is also set to become a significant transit point, with city buses connecting various parts of Patna, he added.
"This subway will not only enhance traffic management but will also symbolize Patna's modernization. Once completed, it will serve as a new identity for the city," Nabin expressed.
He instructed the on-site officials to accelerate the remaining work and ensure the project's prompt completion.
The Bihar government aims to finalize this initiative before the upcoming Assembly elections later this year.
This project is a dream of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, who has conducted multiple inspections in the past and consistently urged officials to speed up construction efforts, as stated by the Minister.