Patna: In a significant move to enhance urban transportation, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar launched the state’s first smart subway and multi-modal transit hub near Patna Junction on Saturday.
The project aims to reduce congestion in the busy area between GPO Golambar and Patna Junction Golambar, especially during peak hours. The new facility offers organized parking and improved access to various modes of public transport, including buses, autos, e-rickshaws, and cabs.
Expressing satisfaction, CM Nitish Kumar said, “It’s a proud moment to see this project completed. We’ve closely overseen its progress, and witnessing it ready today is very fulfilling.” He also instructed the Patna District Magistrate to arrange a detailed media tour of the facility. Although inaugurated today, the hub will open to the public from May 18.
Previously, the absence of a dedicated transit zone near Patna Junction caused inconvenience for commuters, with unorganized stops and lack of formal parking facilities. The new hub resolves these issues by integrating smart subway access, designated parking for various vehicles, and zones for auto, e-rickshaw, and cab management, linked with Buddha Smriti Parking and Tata Parking.
Traffic SP Aparajit Lohan shared that a revised traffic plan has been implemented for the hub, including strict rules and designated routes to prevent bottlenecks and promote smooth flow around the junction.
Designed to be energy-efficient, the parking lot features rooftop solar panels to power the facility. Located about 440 meters from the station, it includes four travel ways of sizes 18 meters, 30 meters, 45 meters, and 55 meters to facilitate easy movement of people between parking and key destinations.
Additionally, the hub is equipped with two escalators and two underground lifts to enhance convenience for users.