The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has signed a loan agreement with the Government of India to provide a Japanese ODA loan worth JPY 98,612 million, which is approximately USD 910 million or INR 55.21 billion, for the Patna Metro Rail Construction Project (I). The project aims to address the growing demand for transportation in Patna by constructing a new metro corridor, thus contributing to the improvement of the urban environment, economic development, and mitigation of climate change in the city. The loan agreement was signed by Rajat Kumar Mishra, Additional Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance, Govt. of India and SAITO Mitsunori, Chief Representative, JICA India office. The primary objective of the project is to create a public transport-oriented city that reduces emissions and minimizes environmental impact. Additionally, the project aligns with the government's goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 33-35% by 2030 compared to 2005 levels, based on the Paris Agreement. SAITO Mitsunori, Chief Representative of JICA India office, expressed his satisfaction with the signing of the loan agreement, saying, JICA’s cooperation in the Metro Development in India had expanded in six cities, namely Delhi, Chennai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Mumbai and Ahmedabad and this project in Patna will be the first metro project in what is called Tier II cities. I am glad to be involved in an important project in the historical city of Patna. Considering the growing population and industries in the city, I am sure this project will improve the life and business in Patna and I hope this will be considered the best example of a metro project in Tier II cities. The Patna Metro Rail Corporation Limited (PMRCL) will operate and maintain the Patna Metro Rail Construction Project (I) with the support of the ODA Loan Agreement. This agreement strengthens the partnership between Japan and India, which have been working together to promote infrastructure development in India. The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has extended ODA loans of over 1.7 trillion Japanese yen (approximately Rs 107,5050 million) to develop metro rail systems in several Indian cities, including Chennai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai, and Ahmedabad. These loans have helped in the development of modern and efficient metro rail systems, which have significantly improved the transportation infrastructure in these cities. Overall, the partnership between Japan and India has been crucial in promoting infrastructure development in India, and the ODA loans provided by JICA have played a significant role in this regard.