Patna’s multi-modal hub near the GPO roundabout is set to introduce an automated paid parking system in October as Patna Smart City formalises operations at the transport facility and its adjoining 440-metre subway. Motorists will have to pay to use the facility, although the tariff has not yet been finalised.

Officials are reviewing parking charges at major facilities, including Patna Junction and Jayaprakash Narayan International Airport, before fixing the rates. Monthly passes are also planned for regular users, with the system intended to make parking more convenient and reduce roadside vehicle parking near the transport hub.

The system will use sensors and automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) cameras to limit manual intervention at the entry point. Sensors will detect an approaching vehicle, while the ANPR camera will scan its registration number and trigger automatic ticket generation before the boom barrier opens.

The multi-level facility can accommodate up to 225 cars at a time. The ground floor has space for six cars and 32 buses, the first floor can hold 67 cars, and the second and third floors can each accommodate 76 cars. Two-wheelers will use a separate rotary technology-based facility with capacity for up to 96 motorcycles.

Patna Smart City is also planning similar rotary parking facilities at three other locations, although their sites and timelines have not been specified. The parking system will form part of a wider operations and maintenance contract covering the hub and its subway.

Four agencies technically qualified at a tender committee meeting held on September 19 and have been invited to submit objections before their financial bids are opened. The selected private operator will manage the parking facility, hub and subway, making the tender outcome important for the October rollout. The complex also includes a 4,763-square-foot restaurant, five internal shops, six subway-side shops, an ATM area and electric vehicle charging facilities.