NHAI Advances Patna Ring Road with Sherpur-Kanhauli Six-Lane Project
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has taken a significant step forward in the development of the Patna Ring Road by receiving and evaluating bids for the construction of the crucial Sherpur-Kanhauli six-lane stretch. This key infrastructure project, which had previously faced delays due to funding issues, is now moving ahead with the selection process for an executing agency expected to conclude within approximately one month.
Project Specifications and Financial Details
The proposed greenfield corridor will span approximately 9.98 kilometers along NH-131G, connecting Sherpur to Kanhauli. The comprehensive design includes:
- An 8.48-kilometer main carriageway
- A 1.5-kilometer ramp at the Kanhauli junction
- Four minor bridges and two minor bridges-cum-underpasses
- One flyover and multiple underpass structures
- 30 culverts and 6.48 kilometers of slip roads
- An interchange with the Bihta-Danapur elevated corridor
The total project cost is estimated at Rs777.79 crore, with Rs362.62 crore specifically allocated for civil works. The financial burden will be shared equally between the state and central governments, following the resolution of earlier funding delays that had stalled progress.
Engineering Excellence and Construction Timeline
This ambitious project will be executed under the Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) mode, ensuring integrated project delivery. Key engineering features include:
- A design speed of 100 kilometers per hour
- A five-meter-wide flush median for enhanced safety
- Flexible pavement designed for a capacity of 150 million standard axles (msa)
- A six-plus-six lane toll plaza located 7.5 kilometers before Kanhauli
Once the successful bidder receives the Letter of Approval (LoA), construction is projected to commence with an estimated completion timeline of two years.
Land Acquisition and Regional Impact
The district administration has identified the necessary land for the greenfield section between Sherpur and Kanhauli, while some existing roads will be widened to accommodate the new infrastructure. NHAI officials have confirmed that farmers affected by land acquisition will receive compensation following proper document verification, with notices already issued to relevant stakeholders.
In a complementary development, approximately 50 acres of land at Kanhauli has been earmarked for the new Patli Bus Terminal, with officials indicating that this acquisition is unlikely to displace any residential structures.
Strategic Importance and Benefits
The Sherpur-Kanhauli stretch represents a vital component of the broader Patna Ring Road initiative, designed to alleviate traffic congestion and improve connectivity across the region. Upon completion, this infrastructure is expected to significantly benefit Patna, Saran, and Vaishali districts by enhancing transportation efficiency and supporting economic development through improved access and mobility.
The project's revival following the state government's commitment to funding underscores the renewed priority being given to critical infrastructure development in Bihar, marking an important milestone in the region's transportation network enhancement.
