Patna: A major passenger amenity upgrade has been approved for Patna Junction, where the Railways will construct a two-storey modular waiting-cum-holding area at an estimated cost of Rs 100 crore. The facility is expected to significantly expand capacity and streamline passenger movement during peak travel periods.
The project, cleared by the Railway Board, is being taken up as part of infrastructure modernisation efforts under the East Central Railway zone.
Project Overview
According to railway officials, the proposed structure will be developed as a modern waiting facility to address long-standing congestion issues at the station. The design has been prepared to improve passenger comfort and operational efficiency, particularly during high-traffic periods.
A team from RITES recently conducted a detailed inspection of Patna Junction, reviewing key areas including reservation counters, circulating zones, and parking facilities before finalising planning inputs.
Capacity and Design
The upcoming facility will be a two-storey modular structure capable of accommodating around 5,000 passengers at a time. Officials said this is intended to reduce overcrowding in existing waiting areas, especially during festivals and peak travel hours.
The project is being modelled on facilities developed at Gorakhpur Junction, which serve as a reference for large-scale passenger handling infrastructure.
Infrastructure Plan
The proposed building will cover approximately 10,000 square feet and will be designed with multiple passenger-centric zones.
The ground floor will house reservation counters and UTS (Unreserved Ticketing System) facilities to ease ticketing congestion. The first floor will function as a dedicated waiting area equipped with seating arrangements, digital train display boards, drinking water points, and sanitation facilities.
The second floor is planned to include dormitory spaces and retiring rooms to support long-distance travellers requiring short-term rest.
Passenger Traffic Context
Patna Junction handles one of the highest passenger volumes in the region, with around 210 to 225 trains operating daily. On normal days, approximately 1.25 lakh passengers pass through the station.
During major festivals such as Chhath and Holi, footfall rises sharply, often crossing 2.5 lakh passengers, placing additional strain on existing infrastructure and waiting facilities.
The proposed development is expected to ease congestion and improve overall passenger experience once construction begins.
