Patna Metro : The long wait for the people of Patna to ride the metro is finally coming to an end. Until now, residents have only been catching glimpses of the sleek metro trains running on elevated tracks during trial runs, but in just a few days, they will get to experience this modern mode of transportation for themselves. With daily trial runs already underway and preparations for regular operations nearing completion, the excitement in the city is clearly visible.
The finishing touches are being given to the first three metro stations, while the timetable and fare structure have also been finalized. If all goes according to plan, the metro service is expected to be inaugurated around the festive season of Navratri, giving Patna residents a brand-new travel experience.
Ticket Counters Ready for Service
As the trial runs continue, the entry and exit points at the initial three metro stations are being polished and finalized. From lighting systems to other essential installations, the stations are being equipped with modern amenities to ensure smooth passenger movement. Ticket counters and digital ticketing facilities have already been set up. Outside the metro stations, traffic management is also being streamlined with proper directions issued to relevant departments to avoid congestion once the metro begins operations.
Ongoing Trial Runs
The trial phase of the metro began on September 4 and is still ongoing. On the very first day, the metro was tested inside the depot premises. Soon after, it was operated from the depot to the Bhutnath Road station on the elevated track. Even during low-light conditions, the trial was reported to be successful. Meanwhile, the sprawling metro depot built across 76 acres at Bairiya has also been nearly completed. This depot will serve as the hub for maintaining and housing the metro trains.
Fare Structure and Ticket Pricing
The fare structure for the Patna Metro has also been nearly finalized. According to the available information, the minimum fare will be ₹15, while the maximum fare is expected to be ₹30. To put it simply, traveling between two consecutive stations will cost passengers ₹15. However, if they travel across a longer distance, the fare will go up to ₹30.
For instance, passengers traveling from New ISBT to Zero Mile will only have to pay ₹15. But if they extend their journey from New ISBT to Bhutnath, the fare will be ₹30. In the future, as the metro line expands beyond Bhutnath to Malahi Pakri, the fare structure will be revised accordingly. It is worth noting that the official announcement of fares has not yet been made.
Travel Time and Operational Hours
As per officials connected with the Patna Metro project, the metro will operate for around 14 to 15 hours daily. Each complete round trip, covering the initial stretch of the metro line, is expected to take around 20 minutes. While the exact timetable is still under discussion, passengers can expect the metro to be available from early morning until late evening. Once finalized, the exact schedule and fare details will be made public for the convenience of commuters.
A Modern Transit Experience for Patna
The Patna Metro is being seen as a transformative step for the city’s urban mobility. With affordable fares, reduced travel time, and state-of-the-art infrastructure, it is set to provide residents with a faster, safer, and more comfortable travel experience. As the countdown to its official launch begins, the anticipation among locals is only growing. For the people of Patna, Navratri may not just bring festive celebrations this year, but also the joy of their very first metro ride.