Will Bihar CM Nitish Kumar Inaugurate Patna Metro Today?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Inauguration of Patna Metro marks a significant milestone in urban transport.
- Initial route is 4.5 km long, enhancing connectivity.
- Future expansions include underground corridors and additional tunnels.
- Metro aims to reduce traffic congestion in Patna.
- Trains feature Madhubani art, showcasing local culture.
New Delhi, Oct 6 (NationPress) The much-awaited Patna Metro is poised to make significant strides on Monday as Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar will officially launch the city’s inaugural operational metro line. The initial stretch of 4.5 kilometers, which connects the Patliputra Inter-State Bus Terminal (ISBT) to Bhootnath Station through Zero Mile, is part of the Red Line corridor and symbolizes the commencement of metro services in the state capital.
In addition to the elevated Red Line, plans for a new underground corridor are underway. Reportedly, during the inauguration, the Chief Minister will lay the groundwork for a 9.35 km tunnel segment linking Patna Junction to Rukunpura.
This landmark development is set to dramatically enhance urban mobility in Patna. The Patna Metro Rail Corporation Limited (PMRCL), in partnership with the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), has finalized all requisite preparations for the launch. The Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS) recently provided approval following successful trial operations.
The first trial involved a three-coach train tested over an 800-meter track within the depot to evaluate technical and safety protocols. This was succeeded by extensive trials across the entire route, concentrating on aspects such as speed, braking, power supply, and overall system functionality.
The metro corridor will link key areas including Bhootnath Road, Khemni Chak, and Zero Mile. With a capacity of 300 passengers per coach, these trains can transport around 900 passengers per trip, ensuring seamless and efficient commuting during peak hours.
Notably, the metro coaches pay homage to Bihar’s rich cultural heritage with Madhubani artwork and illustrations of historic landmarks such as the Golghar, Mahabodhi Temple, Buddha Stupa, and Nalanda ruins, merging tradition with modern infrastructure.
Once operational, the Patna Metro will provide a zero-emission, high-capacity transportation alternative, aimed at alleviating traffic congestion in the city and revolutionizing daily travel for thousands of residents.