Bihar's first detention centre for foreign nationals will be established in Buxar, near the District Central Jail, marking a significant addition to the state's correctional infrastructure. The proposed facility will be built on a 4,400 square feet plot located near the banks of the Ganga, with an estimated cost of Rs 5 crore. A proposal has been submitted to the concerned department, and construction will commence once administrative approval is granted.
Purpose and Need
The detention centre will provide secure accommodation for foreign male and female nationals after their release from prison until they are repatriated to their respective countries. Currently, authorities rely on temporary arrangements, which often lead to administrative and logistical difficulties. The government has accelerated the project, with land already identified, the building design approved, and the detailed project report (DPR) submitted for administrative clearance. Officials have confirmed that this will be the only detention centre of its kind in Bihar.
Design and Facilities
Designed as a G+2 structure by the building construction department, the facility will include separate accommodation for men and women, along with toilets, drinking water, electricity, ventilation, and healthcare facilities. CCTV cameras will monitor the entire premises round the clock to ensure security. A major portion of the campus will be developed with gardens and green spaces. Officials believe the location near the Ganga will provide a better environment within the complex.
Context and Significance
Buxar already houses Bihar's first open jail, established in 2012 for well-behaved inmates who are not habitual offenders. With the addition of the detention centre, the district is set to achieve another first-of-its-kind facility. Rupesh Kumar, executive engineer of the building construction department, stated, 'The DPR has been submitted for administrative approval. Once clearance is received, the tendering process and other formalities will be completed, after which construction work will begin.'
Rajneesh Kumar Singh, inspector general of prisons and correctional services in Patna, said, 'The detention centre will provide secure accommodation for foreign nationals involved in criminal cases after their release by courts and until they are handed over to representatives of their respective countries. Bihar's first such facility is being established in Buxar.'
