An accident at the tunnel construction site of the Patna Metro project in the eastern Indian state of Bihar claimed the lives of two workers, leaving several others injured.
The incident occurred on 28 October near the Ashok Rajpath area in Patna when a soil excavation machine experienced a brake failure, causing it to overturn and trap workers beneath. Local authorities reported that seven individuals were directly impacted, with five currently receiving medical attention at a nearby hospital.
Initial investigations by the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) indicated that the accident stemmed from mechanical issues in the heavy machinery, highlighting safety concerns among the workforce.
The Patna Metro project, set to transform the city’s transport infrastructure, remains in progress, with service targeted to commence by 2025. This development aims to connect key areas, including Ashok Path and Gangapath, via two major metro corridors.
However, in light of this accident, both local authorities and DMRC officials are expected to review existing safety measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future. The incident has sparked discussions about the occupational hazards associated with large infrastructure projects, reinforcing the necessity of enhanced worker safety practices.
The Patna Metro project has been using advanced tunnel boring machines to construct approximately 8km of underground pathways, stretching from Gandhi Maidan to key transit hubs.
The TBM involved is part of a sequence that has seen significant breakthroughs this year, including the recently completed segment between Moin Ul Haq Stadium and Patna University Station. This phase is said to have represented one of the most challenging portions of the project due to the densely populated areas and historic structures along the tunnel’s route.
Earlier this month, Chennai Metro Rail, another Indian metro rail project, achieved a significant milestone in its Phase 2 project. TBM Palar, which was launched in January this year, successfully reached the Sterling Road shaft after completing its upline drive from Chetpet on Corridor 3.
Its twin, TBM Siruvani, had previously broken through in August after finishing the downline bore. Each tunnel measures 708m in length.
