Patna: Patna Junction, one of the busiest railway stations in Bihar, is set to see major relief from daily traffic and crowding problems. Metro authorities have announced the construction of a new underground subway near the Mahavir Temple that will directly connect the railway station with the metro interchange being built in front of Buddha Smriti Park. This means passengers will no longer need to cross busy roads after getting down from trains, making travel smoother and safer.
The new subway will be built alongside the existing underground passage that already links Patna Junction with the multi-modal hub near the GPO. That earlier subway, built at a cost of Rs 171 crore, was opened last year and has helped reduce surface-level crowding. The upcoming extension will further strengthen underground connectivity and is expected to become the largest underground passenger facility in the city.
Metro officials said that excavation work will begin in May, using a Tunnel Boring Machine to minimise damage and disturbance to nearby structures. Survey work has already been completed and barricading has started. The same machine will also be used to build the metro station near Buddha Smriti Park. Authorities say this modern method will help complete the project efficiently while keeping the surrounding area safe.
The new subway will be connected to the old one through a pre-planned access point. To handle heavy passenger movement, the passage will be equipped with escalators, lifts and travelators, making it easier for elderly people, children and passengers carrying luggage. Officials believe this will greatly improve convenience at Patna Junction, where footfall remains extremely high throughout the day.
The metro station at Buddha Smriti Park will act as an interchange between Patna Metro’s two main corridors. One corridor will come from Danapur via Bailey Road and Patna Junction, while the other will arrive from PMCH through Gandhi Maidan. Stations for both lines are being constructed on different underground levels, allowing easy movement between routes.
At present, construction has led to temporary changes in traffic movement. The main gate of Patna Junction has been closed, and narrow alternative routes have been created for pedestrians and vehicles. Officials have said these arrangements will remain until construction is completed. Once finished, the project is expected to significantly reduce congestion and make daily commuting easier for thousands of people in Patna.
