Bihar Government Announces Major Infrastructure Expansion with JP Ganga Path Extension
In a significant development for Bihar's transportation network, Road Construction Minister Dilip Jaiswal unveiled a comprehensive infrastructure plan during a session in the legislative council on Thursday. The announcement centers on a substantial expansion of the JP Ganga Path, alongside several other critical projects aimed at enhancing connectivity across the state.
JP Ganga Path Extension: A Rs 16,465 Crore Initiative
The state government has formally approved a proposal to extend the JP Ganga Path, marking a pivotal step in Bihar's road infrastructure development. The extension will stretch from Koilwar in Bhojpur district in the west to Sabour in Bhagalpur district in the east, covering a total distance of approximately 76.45 kilometers. Specifically, the western segment from Koilwar will span 35.65 kilometers, while the eastern segment to Sabour will cover 40.80 kilometers.
This project is notable as it will be the first road initiative in Bihar to be implemented under the Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM), a public-private partnership framework designed to streamline funding and execution. Minister Jaiswal emphasized that a total investment of Rs 16,465 crore has been allocated for this ambitious endeavor, which is expected to significantly boost regional connectivity and economic growth.
Collaborative Efforts and Additional Infrastructure Upgrades
In a move to ensure structural integrity and safety, the government has entered into a special agreement with IIT-Patna to conduct a thorough audit of 85 bridges across the state. These bridges, each measuring more than 250 meters in length, will undergo detailed assessments to identify any necessary repairs or reinforcements, thereby enhancing overall road safety standards.
Furthermore, with financial support from the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the state has approved the upgradation of several key highways. This includes:
- Three state highways
- Two district highways
Collectively, these projects will cover a total of 266 kilometers at an estimated cost of Rs 3,743 crore. The upgrades are projected to directly benefit multiple districts, including Supaul, Araria, Sitamarhi, Madhubani, Darbhanga, and Buxar, by improving access to markets, healthcare, and education facilities.
Transforming Bihar into a Global Transport Hub
Minister Jaiswal highlighted that the ongoing construction of a six-lane bridge parallel to the Mahatma Gandhi Setu, coupled with the Patna-Aurangabad four-lane project, is set to transform the entire corridor into a global transport hub. These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to modernize Bihar's infrastructure, reduce travel times, and attract investment by creating a more efficient and reliable transportation network.
The comprehensive plan underscores the state government's commitment to leveraging innovative models like HAM and international partnerships, such as with the ADB, to drive sustainable development and improve the quality of life for residents across Bihar.
