Patna: Construction of a premium parking facility has begun at Patna Junction, marking a significant change in how vehicles will be managed at one of Bihar’s busiest railway stations. The Railway Administration says the move is aimed at improving convenience, safety and order for passengers as well as the general public. The new system will be implemented from January 27 , alongside an increase in parking charges.
Modelled on airport parking systems, the upgraded facility will include boom barriers, controlled entry and exit points, and time-bound pick-and-drop access. Officials said the barriers will be installed on the Mahavir Temple side of the station, allowing tighter control over vehicle movement and helping to reduce congestion and chaos in the area. Passengers will be allowed eight minutes of free time for pick and drop, after which parking fees will apply.
Parking rates for cars have been raised substantially. The charge for up to two hours has increased from Rs 60 to Rs 80, while parking for two to six hours will now cost Rs 200, up from Rs 90. A full day’s parking will cost Rs 500, more than double the previous rate of Rs 236. Railway officials said the revised pricing reflects the improved infrastructure and services being offered.
Bike users will also see higher fees under the new system. Parking for up to two hours will now cost Rs 20 instead of Rs 12. Charges for two to six hours have been fixed at Rs 25, while 24-hour parking will cost Rs 50. Authorities believe the revised structure will discourage long, unnecessary parking and help keep space available for genuine users.
Railway officials said the premium parking arrangement would help curb illegal parking, traffic jams and unauthorised collections. Plans are also in place to introduce digital ticketing and surveillance systems to ensure transparency and accountability. According to the Railways, the higher charges are necessary to sustain better facilities, with the full system set to become operational from January 27 .
