Urban metro systems may or may not generate direct profits, but they contribute to economic growth by benefiting businesses and individuals. This leads to increased consumption, higher tax revenues, and long-term economic gains. Even if a metro system is not immediately profitable, it will become viable over time as cities expand and populations grow.
After the Patna Metro, Bihar cabinet gave nod to metro projects in Bhagalpur, Muzaffarpur, Gaya, and Darbhanga. critics argue that the government should first focus on widening roads and building flyovers before investing in metro systems. This argument is flawed both roads and metro rail are essential for urban infrastructure; it is not a question of choosing one over the other.
China, has extended its high-speed rail corridor to Tibet despite knowing that it would not be immediately profitable, a long-term vision for infrastructure development.