Patna: Patna is set to take a major step towards its long-awaited metro system, with the first trial scheduled for September 3. The test run will cover an 800-metre stretch of track, during which officials will assess speed, signalling systems and track safety. Any issues identified during the exercise will be rectified before wider operations begin.
The trial follows the charging of a 132 kV switch station at the metro depot near Bairia bus terminal. Four 30 MVA power transformers have been installed at the depot, with two converting the 132 kV transmission line into 33 kV to power lifts, escalators and other electrical systems at stations. The other two transformers will convert the line to 25 kV for metro operations, marking a significant step towards regular service.
In its first phase, the Patna Metro’s Red Line is expected to connect the New Pataliputra Bus Terminal with Zero Mile, Bhootnath, Khemnichak and Malahi Pakadi. Fares are likely to start at Rs 15 for short distances, with a maximum charge of Rs 30, though an official announcement is yet to be made.
Passengers will be able to purchase tickets via automated vending machines to be installed at the initial five stations. The machines, costing Rs 2.89 crore, will accept cash, QR codes, credit and debit cards, and other payment options. The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation is in the process of selecting the agency to operate them.
