Patna Metro Set to Expand with Launch of Two New Stations Next Month
The Patna Metro is poised to significantly enhance its operational network with the upcoming launch of two additional stations—Malahi Pakri and Khemnichak—on its priority corridor. According to officials from the Patna Metro Rail Corporation Limited (PMRC), these stations are scheduled to become operational in March, following a critical trial run set for February 25. This trial will be conducted by the Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety (CMRS) to ensure all systems meet stringent safety standards.
Trial Run and Safety Inspections Pave the Way for Launch
The trial run will cover a 2.9-kilometer stretch that connects Malahi Pakri and Khemnichak stations to the existing elevated section of Corridor II, also known as the North-South corridor. Upon successful completion and clearance from the CMRS, the metro train will receive approval to commence regular passenger services on this extended segment. PMRC officials have confirmed that all civil, electrical, engineering, and ancillary works at both stations have been fully completed, making them ready for immediate launch.
A major milestone in this process was the final fire safety inspection at Malahi Pakri Metro Station, which was successfully conducted on February 18. This inspection, led by Anand Kumar, the electrical inspector to the government, was completed on February 14, marking significant progress toward operational readiness. All electronic equipment related to the stations, tracks, and signals has been thoroughly examined and found to be in full compliance with established standards, ensuring a safe and efficient travel experience for commuters.
Completing the Priority Corridor for Enhanced Connectivity
The priority corridor, often referred to as the ‘Blue Line’, spans a total elevated length of 6.6 kilometers between Malahi Pakri and the Patliputra Inter-State Bus Terminal (ISBT). Currently, three stations—ISBT, Zero Mile, and Bhootnath—are operational on an approximately 3.6-kilometer stretch, which has been serving passengers since its inauguration in October of last year. The addition of Malahi Pakri and Khemnichak will complete the full 6.6-kilometer elevated priority corridor, significantly boosting connectivity in eastern Patna.
This expansion is expected to reduce travel times along key routes such as the Bypass Road and Kankerbagh, among other nearby areas, providing a much-needed boost to the city's public transport infrastructure. Officials emphasized that the trial run scheduled for next week will involve detailed examinations of the signalling and electrification systems, as well as track safety and other critical infrastructure components. Once all technical and safety standards are met, public operations at these two stations are slated to commence in the first week of March, following the Holi celebrations on March 4.
Additional Amenities and Future Plans for Corridor II
To accommodate commuters, passenger vehicle parking will be available at Malahi Pakri station. Officials have noted that encroachments have been cleared from the land behind the station, where parking facilities are being developed to ensure convenience for users. Looking ahead, Corridor II spans approximately 14.5 kilometers in total with 12 stations, including five elevated and seven underground. It will connect ISBT to Patna Junction, featuring a 7.3-kilometer underground stretch.
The underground section of Corridor II is targeted for completion by late 2026, with stations planned at Patna Junction, Akashvani, Gandhi Maidan, PMCH, Patna University, Moin-ul-Haq Stadium, and Rajendra Nagar. This phased expansion underscores Patna Metro's commitment to transforming urban mobility and reducing congestion in the city, aligning with broader infrastructure development goals in the region.
