Patna: The entry of hired vehicles into Patna Junction Circle has been officially banned from today, sparking protests by local auto- and e-rickshaw drivers. The demonstrations, organised by several transport associations, have seen drivers sit on roads and chant slogans against the decision, causing disruption to pedestrians.
Pappu Kumar Yadav, state president of the Patna District Auto-E-Rickshaw Association, said the strike is a response to “the district administration’s decision, which is troubling not only for drivers but also for pedestrians.” He added that the livelihood of many drivers has been affected, and the strike will continue until their demands are addressed.
The move follows an inspection of the area around Patna Junction by the city commissioner, Patna SSP, and traffic SP on Sunday. From today, only private vehicles will be allowed to enter the immediate vicinity of the station, while commercial vehicles, including auto- and e-rickshaws, must use newly designated routes.
Vehicles travelling from Kankarbagh to Patna Junction will now reach the station’s parking lot via the Chiraiyatand Bridge, the GPO Roundabout, the Or Block Roundabout, and the Multi-Level Parking Hub. For vehicles leaving the station towards Kankarbagh, the route passes the No. 4 parking area, the GPO, Or Block Roundabout, and R Block Roundabout, before crossing the Chiraiyatand Bridge.
Under the new rules, autos and e-rickshaws are banned from both sides of Exhibition Road, and no parking will be permitted from the Patna Junction Roundabout to the GPO Roundabout.
The administration says the changes aim to streamline traffic around the city’s central station, though drivers warn that prolonged disruptions could have wider consequences for commuters and local businesses.
