Patna: Work on Patna Metro’s Corridor-2 has entered a significant phase, with tunneling officially starting between PMCH station and Gandhi Maidan. The first tunnel boring machine (TBM) has already excavated around 20 metres, while preparations are underway to commence operations with a second TBM.
Officials expect the second machine to start work within the week, paving the way for rapid progress along this crucial stretch of the city’s underground network.
Underground Line to Connect Patna’s Busiest Areas
Once completed, the tunnel will form a vital part of the underground corridor stretching from Moin-ul-Haq Stadium to Patna University, PMCH, Gandhi Maidan, Akashvani, and ultimately Patna Junction. Authorities say this section is the most important of the Patna Metro project, as it links the city’s busiest areas and is expected to significantly ease road congestion and traffic jams.
Challenges and Previous Progress
Earlier, TBMs constructed a 1,480-metre tunnel from Moin-ul-Haq Stadium to Patna University before being removed for maintenance. They were later redeployed towards PMCH and Gandhi Maidan to construct a further 2,302-metre tunnel. Progress, however, was delayed near the Radha Krishna Temple, where tunneling stopped after 952 metres due to land acquisition disputes and protests from local priests and residents.
After three months of work being stalled, engineers employed modern tunneling techniques to carefully move both TBMs past the temple site. The first machine reached PMCH station premises on 10 November, followed by the second on 10 December, allowing excavation to resume.
Technically Challenging 1.35-Kilometre Stretch
The 1,350-metre stretch between PMCH and Gandhi Maidan is considered one of the most technically demanding parts of the project. The route passes through densely populated areas, requiring careful monitoring of soil stability, the safety of older buildings, and traffic management.
With tunneling now underway, the Patna Metro project has gained fresh momentum. Authorities say that as the excavation progresses, the prospect of a fully operational underground metro in Patna is closer than ever, offering a faster and more convenient commute for residents.
