In a significant boost to Bihar's infrastructure, the ambitious Bakhtiyarpur-Tajpur mega road bridge spanning the Ganga River is firmly on course to be opened to the public by May 2026. The project, reviewed by Chief Secretary Pratyaya Amrit, has already seen 65% of its work completed, marking a major milestone.
Strategic Link and Construction Progress
Constructed at a cost of Rs 1,822 crore, this vital bridge will directly connect National Highway-31 at Karjan near Bakhtiyarpur on the southern bank of the Ganga to Tajpur on National Highway-28 in Samastipur district on the northern side. Beyond providing a crucial alternative route linking south and north Bihar, the structure is deemed to be of high strategic importance for the region's development.
During a high-level assessment meeting of the Road Construction Department held via videoconference, Chief Secretary Amrit directed officials and the executing agency to ensure the project meets its May 2026 deadline. He specifically instructed them to swiftly remove any obstacles hindering the construction of two associated road overbridges to avoid delays.
Review of Major Irrigation Projects
The review meeting also covered two major projects under the Water Resources Department. Progress on the centrally aided North Koel reservoir irrigation project, valued at Rs 1,367 crore, was discussed. Land acquisition for the project's right main canal in Aurangabad and Gaya districts has gained considerable momentum.
In Aurangabad, 36.306 hectares out of a targeted 41.251 hectares have been acquired. Similarly, in Gaya, 80.045 hectares against a goal of 96.749 hectares have been secured. Significant groundwork has been laid with the shifting of 1,170 electric poles and 18 transformers in the canal area.
The tender process is advancing, with technical evaluation underway for three bids received under package-7. Furthermore, tenders for canal distributaries in Nabinagar, Amba, Aurangabad, and Madanpur divisions have been floated and are scheduled to be opened on December 24. Upon completion, this project will supply irrigation water to approximately 2,100 hectares of land using pumps at 12 points along the canal.
Focus on Mandai Weir Project
Regarding the Mandai weir and canal network project, the Chief Secretary issued clear directives to officials. He emphasized ensuring unencumbered land acquisition for both the right and left canals and stressed providing proper compensation to landowners as per the records of the concerned mauja (revenue village). To oversee the project's execution, six junior engineers and four assistant engineers have already been appointed.
The comprehensive review saw participation from senior officials of multiple key departments, including Road Construction, Water Resources, Planning and Development, and Finance, highlighting the coordinated government effort to push these transformative infrastructure projects forward.
