Patna: Authorities in Patna have imposed restrictions on construction, renovation and borewell activities within a 20-metre radius on either side of the city’s under-construction metro tunnel, citing safety concerns and potential risks to infrastructure.
The curbs apply to the underground stretch of Corridor-2, being developed by Patna Metro Rail Corporation, which runs between Rajendra Nagar and Patna Junction. Officials said that residents and property owners must obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from metro authorities before undertaking any work within the restricted zone.
Safety Concerns In Densely Populated Areas
The tunnel runs approximately 16 metres beneath densely populated neighbourhoods, including areas near Rajendra Nagar and Patna University, with residential buildings located directly above it.
Authorities said the restriction has been imposed to prevent potential damage to the tunnel structure. Officials also clarified that contrary to circulating rumours, the restriction is limited to 20 metres on either side — not 40 to 50 metres as widely speculated.
In localities such as Rajendra Nagar, Moin-ul-Haq Stadium and Saidpur, the tunnel depth varies between 16 and 25 metres below ground level, increasing vulnerability to surface-level activities.
Borewell Drilling Poses Highest Risk
Experts warned that deep borewell drilling — common in Patna, often extending beyond 350 feet — could directly compromise the structural integrity of the tunnel. During construction, around 80 borewells along the alignment have already been relocated.
Officials also flagged risks from vibrations generated during metro operations, which could potentially affect buildings situated directly above or near the tunnel.
NOC Mandatory For Any Work
Authorities said any proposal for construction or renovation will require prior inspection by metro engineers before an NOC is granted. The Patna Municipal Corporation has been informed and will coordinate with metro authorities on enforcement.
For government-owned buildings, decisions will be taken by a high-level committee chaired by the chief secretary.
How Patna Compares With Other Cities
Officials noted that such restrictions vary across cities depending on soil and technical conditions. In Bhopal, construction is restricted up to 50 metres on either side of metro tunnels, while in Mumbai-Pune and Delhi, similar limits range between 30 and 50 metres.
Metro Project Progress
The Patna metro project spans 31.9 km and is being developed at an estimated cost of Rs 13,365 crore, with funding support from the Japan International Cooperation Agency along with contributions from the state and central governments.
At present, metro services are operational on a 3.45 km elevated stretch between Patliputra Bus Terminal and Bhutnath. Authorities are preparing to launch operations on an additional 2.75 km elevated section connecting Bhutnath to Malahi Pakri later this month.
‘Restrictions Necessary For Safety’
Vijaysheel Kashyap, former general manager (works) at PMRCL, said the restrictions are essential to prevent structural risks.
“Vibrations during metro operations can impact nearby structures. Activities like borewell drilling pose a significant threat, especially in residential areas such as Saidpur where the tunnel passes underneath. Making NOC mandatory ensures that authorities can monitor construction and safeguard both metro infrastructure and surrounding buildings,” he said.
