Patna: Patna’s much-anticipated metro rail project is rapidly progressing, and the city is set to get its largest underground station near the Patna Zoo. The station, being built at a depth of around 17 metres and stretching 355 metres in length, will serve as a key interchange point on the network.
What sets this station apart is the inclusion of a crossover track—designed to allow metro trains to switch tracks—a feature that not only increases operational flexibility but also necessitates the station’s extended size. The location near the zoo on Nehru Path (Bailey Road) has been deemed suitable due to the availability of broader road space, which allows for more complex underground construction.
The station is being constructed in a two-level layout. The upper level will house ticket counters, escalators, lifts, and passenger amenities, while the lower level will feature platforms for both up and down lines. An underpass will also be integrated to enable easy movement between platforms.
To handle the anticipated daily footfall of 1.41 lakh commuters, the station will be equipped with six escalators and three lifts. There will be two main entry and exit points—one near Zoo Gate No.1 on Nehru Path and another on the opposite side of the road—offering easy access from both sides of the thoroughfare.
The crossover track is expected to provide crucial operational support, especially in case of technical disruptions. “If service is disrupted on one line, the crossover will allow trains to shift to the other track, ensuring continuity,” said an official.
