Patna Metro Launch Likely Postponed to August 23, Trial Run Successful on Priority Corridor

Patna, July 31 (H.S.): Residents of Bihar’s capital Patna will have to wait a bit longer to experience the city’s first metro service. The much-awaited Patna Metro Rail launch, originally expected on August 15, is now likely to be held on August 23. The postponement comes as final preparations for technical and operational readiness are still underway.

Metro to Start on Three Stations Initially

In the initial phase, the metro service will operate between only three stations instead of the planned five. Services will commence between New Pataliputra Bus Terminal, Zero Mile, and Bhutnath stations. Work on the other two stations—Khemnichak and Malahi Pakri—is in the final stages.

The trial run on the 6.49 km priority corridor from Bairiya Metro Station to Ramchak Bairiya Depot has been successfully completed.

Launch Date to Depend on CM’s Schedule

Urban Development Minister Jivesh Mishra stated on Thursday that although August 15 was being considered earlier, the possibility of launching the metro on August 23 is now being discussed. The final decision will depend on the availability of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.

He also clarified that the metro project will be implemented in phases, and operations will begin on sections as soon as the respective stations are ready.

First Phase Covers 32 km

The total length of the metro corridor in the first phase is around 32 kilometres. According to officials of the Patna Metro Rail Corporation Limited (PMRCL), preparations for launching services on the priority corridor are in full swing.

Metro Rake from Pune Arrived, Trial Ongoing Despite Rain

The first metro rake, brought from Pune, arrived in Patna on July 20, and trial runs are currently underway. Due to continuous rainfall, the tests are being affected, but technical teams are running the metro using a battery-powered engine. Soon, the system will be connected to the electric line for full-scale trial runs.

Passenger Safety Top Priority

Officials emphasised that passenger safety is the top priority, and every technical and operational detail is being thoroughly examined to ensure a smooth and error-free inauguration.