Patna: The much-anticipated launch of Patna Metro may not take place on August 15 as previously expected, with officials now suggesting that the service could be inaugurated a few days later, possibly on August 23.
Bihar’s Urban Development and Housing Minister, Jivesh Mishra, hinted at the shift in timeline, stating in an interview that while preparations are underway for August 15 launch, August 23 has also been proposed. “It will ultimately depend on Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s availability,” he said.
The initial phase of operations will cover a priority corridor spanning approximately 32 kilometres. Mishra noted that full-scale operations will take time, with new stations being opened gradually as they are completed.
According to a report, officials from Patna Metro Rail Corporation cited ongoing technical and operational preparations as the primary reasons for the delay. They stressed that safety remains the top priority, and thorough inspections are being carried out before commencing passenger services.
A metro train rake from Pune arrived in Patna on July 20 to facilitate trial runs on the priority corridor. While the testing process is currently underway, monsoon rains have disrupted progress. At present, trial runs are being conducted using a battery-operated engine, but the metro will soon transition to powered trials via the main overhead line.
Initially, the metro will operate on a limited stretch covering just three of the five planned stations along the priority corridor. Services will begin between New Pataliputra Bus Terminal, Zero Mile and Bhootnath stations. The remaining two stations—Khemnichak and Malahi Pakadi—will be brought online at a later stage.
