Patna: A trial metro run inside Patna took place on Thursday, marking the first time trains have operated within the city’s core network. The test journey covered the route from Bhootnath Metro Station to two newly built stations, Khemnichak Metro Station and Malahi Pakadi Metro Station, prompting a temporary suspension of services for regular passengers.
The 2.75-km stretch between Bhootnath and Malahi Pakadi was used to evaluate track capacity, braking systems, signalling, and station coordination. Trains were operated at varying speeds as engineers assessed safety and operational readiness.
The metro currently runs on a 3.45-km elevated line between Bhootnath and Patliputra Bus Terminal, but the addition of the new section will extend the operational network to 6.2 km of elevated track connecting Patliputra Bus Terminal and Malahi Pakadi.
Officials said a safety inspection by the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety, originally scheduled for February 25, has been postponed and will now take place in March. The inspection will scrutinise tracks, signalling, platform security, and passenger amenities at the new stations. If approved, services could expand to five stations after Holi.
The Khemnichak Metro Station is being developed as an interchange hub linking Corridor-1 and Corridor-2, allowing passengers to switch routes. Construction and technical integration have slowed progress, officials said, but the interchange facility is expected to improve long-term connectivity.
A 31.9-km metro network is planned for Patna, with an estimated cost of Rs13,365 crore financed through state and central contributions and a loan from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). The second phase will extend services from Khemnichak to stations including Jaganpura, Ramkrishnanagar, and Mithapur, with work on electric poles already underway.
The system ultimately aims to operate two main lines: the Blue Line from Patliputra Bus Terminal to Patna Junction, and the Red Line from Danapur Cantonment to Khemnichak. A three-storey interchange station is being built near Patna Junction, close to Buddha Park, which will serve as the network’s largest hub and allow transfers between lines.
Metro coaches are equipped with 360-degree CCTV surveillance, emergency communication systems, and seating for 138 passengers, with space for a further 945 standing. Designers have incorporated traditional Madhubani artwork, depicting landmarks such as Golghar and the Mahabodhi Temple, reflecting Bihar’s cultural heritage.
Fares currently start at Rs15 for journeys up to 3 km, rising to Rs30 beyond that distance. Officials expect services on the extended 6.2-km route to Malahi Pakadi to commence in March, pending safety approvals.
