Patna Metro reached a historic milestone on Wednesday as the trial run of its trains began at the depot. The first day of testing was completed successfully, raising excitement among the people of Bihar. Urban Development and Housing Minister Jivesh Kumar, who inspected the Red Line stations alongside Patna Metro Managing Director Abhay Kumar Singh, confirmed that residents will soon be able to travel on the metro by the end of this month.
The trial marks a new phase in Bihar’s ambitious urban transport project, which aims to transform mobility in the state capital while highlighting the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Trial Run Marks Beginning of New Era
Minister Jivesh Kumar emphasized that the administrative building, tracks, and other key systems are fully ready. The Railway Board’s safety parameters are being carefully evaluated, and minor shortcomings are being addressed to ensure smooth operation. He further mentioned that the construction agency and officials have been directed to complete the remaining work within 15 days.
During his visit, the minister inspected the Zero Mile station and reviewed the design layout. He also examined the metro train stationed at the depot, gathering details about operations and maintenance. The successful trial run inside the depot marks the first stage, which will continue for a week before moving onto live tracks.
Following this internal testing, trial runs will begin on the Red Line stretch between New Patliputra Bus Terminal and Bhootnath. This will later lead to the official launch of metro services in this corridor.
Capacity and Future Expansion Plans
The depot itself has been constructed with future expansion in mind. Spread over 30.5 hectares, the depot houses workshops, metro tracks, and commercial centers. Of this, 19.2 hectares are dedicated to workshops and tracks, while 11.3 hectares are reserved for commercial development.
The depot has the capacity to maintain up to 66 trains, and currently a three-kilometer track has been laid for this purpose. Initially, the first and second corridors will operate with about 30 trains. The Red Line corridor includes five stations from ISBT to Malahi Pakri, though the initial operations will cover ISBT to Bhootnath, including three stations, where the inauguration is expected to be held.
Facilities at the depot include an administrative building, auxiliary substation building, auto coach washing plant, workshop sheds, and inspection sheds. This infrastructure ensures the long-term sustainability and smooth functioning of Patna Metro.
Coaches Display Bihar’s Heritage
One of the most unique aspects of Patna Metro is the design of its coaches. The train bogies have been decorated with depictions of Bihar’s art, knowledge, and culture, making the metro a cultural experience in itself.
Icons such as Patna’s Golghar, Mahavir Mandir, and depictions of Lord Mahavir are displayed prominently on the coaches. These visual representations aim to connect passengers with the state’s history and traditions as they commute daily.
With a three-coach setup, each metro train has a passenger capacity of approximately 300 people per coach. The cultural artwork, combined with modern amenities, ensures that the Patna Metro is not only a mode of transport but also a symbol of pride for residents.
Anticipation Among Residents
The announcement that Patna Metro may begin services by the end of the month has generated immense enthusiasm among citizens. For years, the demand for a rapid transit system has been growing due to increasing population and traffic congestion. The metro is expected to bring relief by reducing travel time and easing road pressure.
The cultural artwork on the metro bogies has also drawn public attention. Residents have expressed excitement over seeing Bihar’s identity represented on a modern transport system. For many, the metro is more than a project; it represents the state’s march toward modernization while staying rooted in tradition.
A Blend of Tradition and Modernity
Patna Metro’s approach of combining modern infrastructure with cultural storytelling makes it unique among Indian metro systems. While metros in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru emphasize speed and efficiency, Patna Metro is creating a distinct identity by weaving Bihar’s heritage into its design.
This fusion of tradition and modernity reflects Bihar’s journey of growth. It reminds passengers that while the city embraces advanced technology, it remains connected to its cultural roots.
The successful trial run of Patna Metro marks a significant milestone in the state’s urban transport journey. With its advanced infrastructure, capacity for 66 trains, and carefully planned corridors, the project is poised to revolutionize connectivity in the capital.
What makes Patna Metro stand out is the cultural narrative woven into its coaches, where Golghar, Mahavir Mandir, and Lord Mahavir reflect Bihar’s glorious heritage. This unique blend of modern engineering and cultural pride is expected to make Patna Metro not just a convenient transit system but also a moving canvas of Bihar’s identity.
As residents await the official launch, the metro stands as a symbol of hope, progress, and tradition for the people of Bihar. With successful trials and final touches underway, Patna is on the brink of entering a new chapter in its transport history.
