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Patna : The Bihar government has launched a major initiative to improve rural infrastructure and connect villages to cities. Under Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s Mukhyamantri Gramin Setu Yojana, 700 new bridges are set to be constructed in the financial year 2025–26. Around Rs 3,000 crore has been sanctioned for the scheme, which aims to provide permanent and safe road connectivity to thousands of villages across the state.
Approved in September 2024, the scheme is being implemented rapidly. It targets areas where connectivity is frequently disrupted due to rain, floods or the presence of old, damaged bridges.
As part of the plan, new and durable bridges will replace dilapidated ones. The scheme will also address locations where roads remain incomplete due to the absence of bridges. Additionally, bridges damaged by floods or other natural disasters will be rebuilt. In places where bridges exist but lack approach roads, those roads will be constructed to make the structures usable and ensure smooth travel for residents.
The scheme gives weight to public demands. Proposals received through the Janta Ke Darbar Mein Mukhyamantri programme, along with public announcements made by the Chief Minister, have been incorporated. Officials say the scheme reflects public participation rather than being solely a departmental effort.
So far, administrative approval has been granted for 14 bridges under the scheme, with an estimated cost of Rs 117.64 crore. Proposals recommended by District Steering Committees are under review, and further approvals are expected soon.
