PM Modi's cabinet approves 3 metro projects, 2 new airports to boost infrastructure; Deets inside

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Union Cabinet approved three major metro rail projects and two new airport facilities on Friday, marking a significant step forward in India's infrastructure development and transportation expansion.

The Union Cabinet has approved the construction of a new civil enclave at Bihta in Patna, with a budget of ₹1,413 crore. This state-of-the-art facility will feature an integrated terminal building, aimed at relieving the congestion at Patna Airport by increasing its capacity and enhancing passenger experience.

Patna's new airport terminal

The new terminal at Bihta, Patna, is a sprawling 66,000 sqm facility designed to efficiently handle a large volume of passengers. It has a capacity to accommodate 3,000 passengers during peak hours and cater to 50 lakh passengers every year. Moreover, the terminal is designed to expand its capacity to handle one crore passengers annually in the future. The project also includes the construction of a spacious apron with 10 parking bays for A-321/B-737-800/A-320 type aircraft and two link taxiways.

Two new airport projects announced

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced at a Cabinet briefing that two new airport projects will be developed to enhance connectivity in the region. He stated:

"Bagdogra, a rapidly growing area, will get a civil aviation complex worth ₹1,549 crore to improve connectivity with the northeast.

Additionally, a civil airport will be developed at Bihta, 28 km away from Patna, at a cost of ₹1,413 crore, leveraging the existing operational defence airport.

Metro projects

Bangalore Metro Rail Project (Phase 3)

• - Total distance: 44.65 km
• - Total stations: 31
• - Corridor 1: JP Nagar 4th Phase to Kempapura (32.15 km, 22 stations)
• - Corridor 2: Hosahalli to Kadabagere (12.50 km, 9 stations)

Thane Integral Ring Metro Rail Project

• - Distance: 29 km
• - Stations: 22
• - Daily ridership (2029): 6.47 lakh passengers
• - Daily ridership (2045): 8.72 lakh passengers
• - Cost: ₹12,200.10 crore
• - Benefits: Alleviates road congestion, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and unlocks Thane's economic potential

Swargate to Katraj Underground Line Extension (Pune)

• - Distance: 5.46 km
• - Stations: 3 (underground)
• - Route: Market Yard, Bibwewadi, Balaji Nagar, and Katraj suburbs
• - Cost: ₹2,954.53 crore
• - Completion date: February 2029