Patna: Survey work to assess the feasibility of metro rail projects in Muzaffarpur, Bhagalpur, Darbhanga, and Gaya is nearing completion, with RITES Limited, the agency conducting the study, preparing detailed operational plans and alternative analysis reports.
According to sources, reports for two cities have already been submitted to the Urban Development and Housing Department, while the remaining two are expected by December 31. A final consolidated report covering all four cities will then be prepared at the agency’s headquarters.
The Urban Development and Housing Department has approved a second installment payment of Rs. 70.21 lakh to RITES Limited as part of the consultancy fee, which totals Rs. 7.02 crore for the metro feasibility study. RITES began the survey in July, and although the initial deadline for the report was November, it has been extended to the end of December.
Feasibility Studies Address Key Challenges
The feasibility reports will determine whether the metro system should be elevated or underground, as all four cities have densely populated areas. The study will also identify routes that minimize displacement and disruption to housing and infrastructure.
Updates on Patna Metro
Meanwhile, Rs. 115.10 crore has been approved for the Patna Metro Rail Corporation Limited to lay tracks and procure a train set for the priority corridor between Malahi Pakadi and the New ISBT. The funds, allocated from the state plan under the JICA loan, will also cover the installation of lifts and escalators at metro stations. The priority corridor is expected to be operational by August 2025.
Public Anticipation and Hopes for Development
The prospect of metro rail in Muzaffarpur has sparked enthusiasm among residents. Citizens living in areas along the proposed route, such as Ahiyapur, are optimistic about the metro alleviating traffic congestion and reducing reliance on auto-rickshaws and buses.
Ashok Kumar Singh, Satendra Kumar Singh, and Durga Prasad Singh, residents of Ahiyapur, highlighted the challenges they face, such as spending hours stuck in traffic while commuting to the city. “The metro will provide relief from traffic jams and make it easier to reach offices on time,” they said.
Others see the metro as a catalyst for urban development. Residents from Darbhanga, Madhubani, Sitamarhi, and Shivhar, who frequently travel to Zeromile Chowk in Muzaffarpur, expressed hope that the metro will ease their commute to the station, bus stand, court, and collectorate.
With the submission of the final reports, Bihar inches closer to realizing its vision of modern urban transport, promising both convenience and development for its residents.
