By Vishwapati
Patna: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar conducted a review of the ongoing construction works of the Patna Metro Rail Project. During his visit, the Chief Minister inspected various construction sites near Gandhi Maidan, PMCH (Patna Medical College and Hospital), and Patna University. He directed officials to expedite the work to ensure timely completion.
Officials provided the Chief Minister with a detailed update on the progress and current status of the Patna Metro Rail Project. They also briefed him on the construction progress at key locations, including Rajendra Nagar, Moinul Haq Stadium, Malahi Pakadi, Khemnichak, Pahari Par, Zero Mile Metro Station, and ISBT Metro Station.
During the inspection, the Chief Minister Nitish Kumar issued several essential guidelines to the officials. He emphasised the need to complete the construction of the Patna Metro Rail Project as per the action plan. He said that once operational, the metro would significantly ease commuting for the public and alleviate traffic congestion.
The Patna Metro Rail Project was approved on 27th February 2019. The project involves the construction of a 31.9-kilometre metro rail line with 24 proposed stations. The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) is executing the project under the supervision of the Urban Development and Housing Department of the Bihar Government.
Construction of the underground metro line began on 21st November 2023 from Gandhi Maidan Station using a Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM). The TBM has since progressed through the Akashvani underground station and reached Patna Station. Priority has been given to completing the 6.01-kilometre stretch from Malahi Pakadi to Khemnichak, Bhootnath Road, Zero Mile, and Patliputra Bus Terminal.
The project faced delays due to challenges in land acquisition at certain locations. However, these issues have been resolved, and the land has been successfully acquired.
The review was attended by several senior officials, including the Chief Minister’s Principal Secretary, Deepak Kumar; Principal Secretary Dr S. Siddharth; Secretary of the Urban Development and Housing Department, Abhay Kumar Singh; Chief Minister’s Secretary, Kumar Ravi; Patna District Magistrate, Dr Chandrashekhar Singh; Senior Superintendent of Police, Avkash Kumar; and other senior officials associated with the Patna Metro Rail Project.
(The author, Vishwapati, is a senior journalist based in Patna. He may be contacted at vishwapati25@gmail.com)
