Patna: Bihar’s connectivity is set for a major leap as the Auntha-Simaria six-lane Mahasetu, the widest bridge in Asia, nears inauguration. State road construction minister Nitin Nabin inspected the project on Wednesday, calling it a “historic step towards the development of the state.”
The bridge, built across the Ganga between Aunta in Mokama and Simaria in Begusarai, stretches 1.865 km with a total project length of 8.150 km, including approach roads. Constructed at a cost of Rs 1,871 crore, it is expected to transform connectivity between north and south Bihar, while also strengthening links with the northeastern states, giving a boost to trade and industry.
The structure, based on 18 pillars, is 34 metres wide and carries three lanes of traffic on each side. Two landscaped rotaries — 100 metres wide at Aunta and 80 metres at Simaria — have been developed as parks with plantation to enhance greenery around the site.
“The Mahasetu is not just a bridge, but a new door to Bihar’s aspirations and development. It will pave the way for employment, industry and progress for coming generations,” Nabin said.
Modern construction techniques were deployed for the project, including the Push Box Method to build a rail underbridge without disrupting train traffic, PVD (Perforated Vertical Drain) technology to stabilise alluvial soil, and Gabion retaining walls.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to inaugurate the bridge on August 22. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar had earlier reviewed the project in September 2024. The bridge is part of the 2015 special package announced by Modi for Bihar, with its foundation stone laid by him in Mokama in 2017.
Alongside, the old Rajendra Prasad bridge, Bihar’s first Ganga bridge whose foundation was laid by India’s first president in 1956, is undergoing repairs. The National Highways Authority of India has sanctioned Rs 85 crore to the Railways for the work, expected to be completed within three months.
