The Patna Metro, Bihar’s first metro rail system, was launched by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar last month, attracting thousands of eager commuters. Although the majority of inhabitants welcomed the launch with cheer, the celebrations were tainted by an episode that drew nationwide attention—gutka stains on one of the newly opened stations.
The Blue Line corridor of the metro today extends from ISBT to Bhootnath Road, spanning approximately 3.6 km across three stations. Running from 8 AM to 10 PM and charging from ₹15 to ₹30, the metro had assured high-tech infrastructure, ease, and a kick to city mobility.
Public Reaction: Delight and Indignation
Passengers were delighted with Bihar Metro facilities, commending clean trains, timely schedules, and seamless operations. Social media was full of selfies and videos of passengers taking their first rides.
Yet within three days of the inauguration, a surprise awaited citizens—walls of Bhootnath station were smeared with gutka. Footage of the stains went viral, with netizens decrying the act as disrespectful to public property. Reactions varied from appeals for civic duty to calls for stringent punishments for offenders. Most locals were embarrassed that the symbol of modernization of Bihar was being vandalized so shortly after it had been inaugurated.
The authorities responded hastily with the assurance of intensified cleanliness inspection, CCTV surveillance, and awareness drives to stop further abuse. The incident prompted a larger debate within Bihar regarding public conduct and respect for city infrastructure.
Challenges and Optimism
Aside from the gutka problem, there have been smaller issues regarding heritage buildings in Patna University cracking up, allegedly caused by tunneling for underground tracks. Officials promised prompt repair and continuous observation to make sure that they are safe. In spite of these mishaps, the people are hopeful and look at the metro as a beacon of development and a relief from traffic and pollution problems.
Conclusion
Patna Metro reflects Bihar’s vision for contemporary urban transport, but the gutka scandal has emphasized the importance of public responsibility and civic awareness. While citizens rejoice at greater mobility and ease of travel, this incident reminds us that keeping up pride in public engineering is as important as creating it.
