Patna: Urban Development Minister Jibesh Kumar has directed officials and engineers to complete the first phase of the Patna Metro project by August 15, stressing that the launch of metro services between Malahi Pakadi and Patliputra Bus Terminal must remain a top priority.
Reviewing the priority corridor on Saturday, the minister instructed teams from Patna Metro Rail Corporation Limited (PMRCL) and Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) to strictly adhere to the project timeline. “The metro service is to begin on August 15. Completing it on time is the responsibility of all of us,” Kumar said, urging engineers to work diligently and without delay.
Accompanied by Additional Secretary Varsha Singh and senior departmental officials, the minister assessed progress on the 6.5-kilometre elevated stretch that will connect Malahi Pakadi, Bhootnath, Zeromile, and Patliputra Bus Terminal. Metro trains for the corridor are currently en route from Mumbai, with preparations underway for their arrival in Patna.
Officials reported that track-laying and electric cable work is in progress where spans have been installed. At three remaining points along the bypass, span joining work is pending and will require temporary traffic diversions. The district administration will soon be approached for the necessary approvals.
Station construction is also moving at pace. In case of unforeseen delays, authorities have indicated that Khemnichak station may be temporarily bypassed to ensure the corridor is operational by the target date.
