Patna: Patna Metro is expected to begin full operations on its primary corridor in January, extending services from ISBT to Malahi Pakadi over a 6.107km stretch. The line, which currently runs between ISBT and Bhootnath, has been under phased construction since its partial launch on October 6.
According to officials, civil work between Bhootnath and Malahi Pakadi will reach 100% completion by December. However, the formal launch is likely to slip to the third week of January due to the onset of Kharmas, a period during which inaugurations are typically avoided.
Khemnichak station to remain closed
Although trains will run along the entire length of the corridor, they will not stop at Khemnichak station for the time being. Land acquisition at the site has been delayed, preventing construction from beginning. Officials estimate it will take at least six months to complete the station once work starts.
Track laying and electrical installations are nearly complete up to 90 Feet, beyond Malahi Pakadi, with rapid progress on laying tracks and erecting power poles near Bhootnath station.
Station works ongoing
Catenary wires are being installed across the corridor and preparations continue for the Khemnichak platform. However, the station complex and ticketing areas remain unfinished. Work to integrate Bhootnath, Zero Mile and ISBT stations from the opposite side is also underway, with faster progress reported at ISBT and Bhootnath.
Fare structure finalised
Fares for the Red Line’s primary corridor have been set. Travel up to three kilometres will cost Rs 15, while journeys between three and six kilometres will cost Rs 30. At present, passengers travelling between Bhootnath and ISBT pay Rs 15, but once services extend to Malahi Pakadi, the full journey from ISBT to Malahi Pakadi will cost Rs 30.
The January launch will mark a significant milestone for Patna’s long-awaited metro network, though full station access will only be possible once Khemnichak becomes operational later next year.
