The East Central Railway (ECR) has unveiled an ambitious master plan to completely transform two of Bihar's key railway hubs: Patna Junction and Danapur station. This comprehensive redevelopment, slated for completion by 2030, is designed to manage the surge in passenger traffic, integrate future metro rail services, and cater to Patna's growing urban population.
A Vision of Modernity and Local Culture
According to Abhinav Siddarth, the Senior Divisional Commercial Manager (Sr. DCM) of Danapur division, the revamp will give both stations a sleek, contemporary look. The new facade buildings will feature modern architectural designs while thoughtfully incorporating elements that celebrate local art and crafts. This fusion aims to create visually appealing gateways to the city that reflect its cultural heritage.
The core objective is to drastically improve the passenger experience. The redevelopment will prioritize convenience and ensure smooth, hassle-free movement throughout the station premises. A key feature will be the construction of new Foot Over Bridges (FOBs) that will connect all critical parts of the stations, providing direct access to every platform. These FOBs will be designed with easier mobility for disabled passengers in mind.
Boosting Accessibility and Creating a Transport Hub
To further enhance accessibility, the plan includes the integration of escalators and lifts. Patna Junction is set to receive eight additional escalators to link all platforms with the FOB network. This upgrade is crucial as the railways are preparing for an expected increase of two lakh (200,000) additional passengers per day at Patna Junction.
A significant part of the vision is to seamlessly integrate different modes of transport. The blueprint envisions a direct link between the circulating area at the new Hardinge Park terminal and a multi-modal transportation hub. This will ensure easy interchange between railways, buses, and the soon-to-be-launched metro services, positioning Patna Junction as a critical node in the city's overall transportation network.
Green Oases and Expanded Capacity
In a move to beautify the station and provide respite to travelers, Patna Junction will feature a dedicated horticulture zone, creating a green oasis amidst the bustling transit point. This initiative is expected to enhance the station's aesthetic appeal and offer a refreshing environment for passengers.
Meanwhile, Danapur station, a crucial hub on the outskirts of Patna, will undergo a significant expansion to handle growing demand. The proposed upgrades include three additional platforms to accommodate more passengers and allow for more efficient train operations. To streamline logistics, Danapur will also get a designated area for parcel transportation, enabling faster and more organized handling of goods.
Saraswati Chandra, Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) of ECR, confirmed that the master plan is currently underway. The exact cost of the ambitious project will be determined once the final plan is ready. Upon completion, the railways expect both stations to rank among the most modern and well-equipped facilities in the region, contributing significantly to Patna's growth as a major urban centre.
