Patna: Patna’s traffic congestion near its busy railway junction is set to ease as authorities push forward with an extensive infrastructure plan, including a multi-modal hub and an underground subway. District Magistrate Dr. Chandrashekhar Singh convened a high-level meeting today with Senior Superintendent of Police Avkash Kumar, Superintendent of Police (Traffic) Aparajit Lohan, and other senior officials to review the progress and formulate an improved traffic management strategy.
The meeting, held at the Patna Collectorate, also included representatives from auto-rickshaw and vehicle associations to gather suggestions from all stakeholders. The district administration emphasized that traffic plans would prioritize public convenience, aiming for seamless movement around Patna Junction.
“The state government is making continuous efforts to ensure smooth traffic flow near Patna Junction. The construction of a multi-modal hub and a subway is progressing rapidly to address congestion issues,” said Dr. Singh.
The subway will connect the multi-modal hub near GPO Golambar to the eastern side of Mahavir Mandir, streamlining pedestrian movement and reducing surface congestion. Officials reviewed proposals to distribute traffic pressure around Golambar, with a detailed plan being prepared by the Superintendent of Police (Traffic). Various agencies, including the Transport Department, Urban Administration, Patna Smart City, and the municipal corporation, have been directed to work in coordination. Measures such as U-turns, dividers, designated parking for e-rickshaws and auto-rickshaws, traffic islands, signage, and information boards are under consideration.
The Path Nirman Department has been tasked with road widening and beautification efforts, including the renovation of Srinivas Path and the stretch from the station to R Block. Patna Smart City officials were instructed to install clear signage and boards, while Patna Municipal Corporation has been directed to upgrade the multi-level parking facility at Buddha Smriti Park, adding amenities such as drinking water and toilets on each floor.
A Comprehensive Plan for Public Transport and Infrastructure
Patna Junction, a crucial hub serving thousands of passengers daily, is undergoing a transformation under the state government’s Smart City Mission. A multi-level parking facility, recently inaugurated in Mauryalok by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar during his Pragati Yatra, is expected to alleviate parking woes.
Dr. Singh stressed that regular inspections would be conducted to ensure smooth traffic operations, incorporating feedback from auto and bus associations, local representatives, and the general public. A multi-member sub-committee, led by the Superintendent of Police (Traffic) and including officials from law enforcement, transport, and infrastructure departments, will oversee and refine traffic management strategies.
The multi-modal hub, spanning four acres, will feature a four-storey structure (G+3) with comprehensive parking solutions. It will accommodate 32 buses and 225 cars, with separate levels for vehicles. Additionally, a restaurant with seating for 76 people, along with citizen-friendly amenities such as toilets, drinking water, ATMs, and shops, will be included. A designated waiting area near the ticket counters aims to enhance passenger convenience.
An Air-Conditioned Subway With Travelators and Escalators
The underground subway near Patna Junction is being developed to facilitate pedestrian movement and reduce street-level congestion. With three entry and exit points—at the Multi-Modal Hub, the Buddha Smriti Park multi-level car park, and Mahavir Temple—the subway will provide a direct, traffic-free route for commuters. The 440-meter-long structure will feature eight travelators, four escalators, and two lifts, ensuring easy accessibility. The entire facility will be air-conditioned for commuter comfort.
According to engineers from the bridge construction department, the subway is nearing completion and is expected to open within the month. Once operational, it will allow passengers to seamlessly transition between the railway station, the multi-modal hub, and different parts of the city via public transport.
State-of-the-Art Parking Facilities in Mauryalok
The newly developed multi-level car parking at Mauryalok has been designed in two segments. The first section, located at the front of Mauryalok, has a capacity for 96 cars, while the second section within the complex can accommodate 60 vehicles. The facility employs a dolly shuttle system for efficient parking, further modernizing the city’s infrastructure.
