Patna Metro Seeks Concessions on Power Tariffs to Ensure Affordable Fares
Patna: Patna Metro Rail Corporation Limited (PMRCL) has sought concessions on electricity tariffs to keep passenger fares affordable as it prepares to roll out metro services on two key corridors—Danapur to Mithapur (via Bailey Road) and Patna Station to New ISBT (via Ashok Rajpath). The metro is expected to consume an average of 40 MVA (megavolt ampere) of power, which will be supplied by South Bihar Power Distribution Company.
To ensure an uninterrupted and high-quality power supply, PMRCL plans to establish small substations near stations and depots. It has also urged the state government to introduce a special tariff for the metro, similar to concessions given in other states, including Maharashtra, Delhi, and Uttar Pradesh. The metro receives electricity at the lowest rate of Rs 5.31 per kilowatt-hour in Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh, while the highest rate, Rs 7.30 per unit, is in Uttar Pradesh. PMRCL argues that placing metro services under a subsidized tariff category would prevent additional financial burdens on passengers.
With plans to commence operations on priority corridors by August 2025, PMRCL estimates an initial electricity demand of 20.44 MVA this year, with 33% allocated to train traction and 66% for station and depot operations. The consumption is projected to increase by 10% every decade.
PMRCL has also requested the Bihar State Electricity Regulatory Commission to exempt metro services from the Time-of-Day (TOD) tariff system, arguing that the metro’s operational hours from 6 am to 11 pm would prevent it from benefiting from lower rates during lean hours. Additionally, the corporation is exploring solar energy integration and has asked for compensation for providing grid-connected solar power. It has also sought approval for energy meters with a lag-only configuration for metro rail services.
