Patna's New Parallel Bridge to Mahatma Gandhi Setu Set for December Completion
In a significant development for Bihar's infrastructure, the additional four-lane bridge being constructed parallel to the iconic Mahatma Gandhi Setu is slated for completion by December this year. This project promises to offer substantial relief to thousands of commuters who regularly endure hours-long traffic congestion on the existing bridge connecting Patna and Hajipur.
Project Progress and Timeline
According to a recent statement from the Road Construction Department (RCD), approximately 60% of the work has been completed on this ambitious initiative. Officials have indicated that the new bridge route to Hajipur is expected to become fully operational in early 2027, marking a new era in regional connectivity.
The decision to undertake this parallel bridge construction was driven by the escalating traffic pressure on the Mahatma Gandhi Setu. This historic bridge, built on NH-19 nearly four and a half decades ago, has been struggling to accommodate the growing volume of vehicles crossing the Ganges River daily.
Project Specifications and Contract
Following recommendations from the Government of India, the RCD commenced work on this project in 2021. The bridge itself spans an impressive 5.5 kilometers in length and connects to 14.5 kilometers of approach roads on both the Patna and Hajipur sides. The construction contract has been awarded to SP Singla Construction Private Limited, a firm with extensive experience in large-scale infrastructure projects.
Enhanced Regional Connectivity
Once completed, this new bridge is expected to dramatically improve connectivity for commuters from multiple districts across Bihar:
- North Bihar districts: Patna, Jehanabad, Arwal, Gaya, Aurangabad, Nalanda, and Nawada
- South Bihar districts: Chhapra, Vaishali, Samastipur, Darbhanga, Madhubani, Saran, Siwan, and Gopalganj
This enhanced connectivity will facilitate smoother transportation of goods and people, potentially boosting economic activity throughout the region.
Addressing Structural Concerns
The RCD statement also addressed concerns about the aging Mahatma Gandhi Setu. A few years ago, the superstructure of the old bridge was replaced due to its deteriorating condition. While officials confirm that the four-lane bridge is now structurally safe and traffic flow has improved, vehicle load continues to increase at a rapid pace.
To provide lasting relief from this growing pressure, the central government recommended the construction of a parallel four-lane bridge and approved a substantial budget of Rs 2,926.42 crore for the project. This investment underscores the government's commitment to modernizing Bihar's transportation infrastructure and addressing the chronic traffic issues that have plagued this vital river crossing for years.
The completion of this parallel bridge represents more than just an infrastructure project—it symbolizes progress toward resolving one of Bihar's most persistent transportation challenges, promising smoother journeys and economic benefits for the entire region.
