Patna: For the first time, trains under the Patna Metro Rail Project will run up to Malahi Pakadi as part of a crucial trial scheduled for Thursday. The development marks an important step in expanding Patna’s first metro corridor. However, to carry out the test safely, services between the New Patliputra Bus Terminal (ISBT) and Bhootnath stations will remain completely suspended for the day.
Officials said the temporary suspension is necessary to conduct safety inspections and technical tests on the newly built 6.1km elevated stretch between ISBT and Malahi Pakadi. During the trial, engineers will test the train at different speeds and closely examine signalling systems, overhead power supply and traction equipment. The aim is to ensure smooth and secure operations before the line opens to passengers.
At present, metro services are running only between ISBT and Bhootnath, a limited stretch that began operations on 6 October 2025. After the extension becomes operational, commuters will be able to travel longer distances within the city using the metro. Authorities expect this to reduce traffic congestion and make daily travel faster and more comfortable.
Following the trial, a team from the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety will inspect the new section. Passenger services to Malahi Pakadi are likely to begin from the second week of March, subject to approval. The route will include stations at Patliputra Bus Terminal, Zero Mile, Bhootnath, Khemnichak and Malahi Pakadi. However, Khemnichak station is still under construction due to land acquisition delays and may take another three to four months to open.
The trial run is being conducted jointly by engineers from the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation and the local project team. In the next phase, officials plan to extend the corridor further to Mithapur via Jaganpura and Ramakrishna Nagar. The full metro project, which proposes a network of around 31.9km in Patna, is expected to bring major improvements to the city’s transport system in the coming years.
