Patna: The Government of Bihar has requested the central government to upgrade all proposed and under-construction expressways in the state from four lanes to six lanes. The proposal was discussed during a high-level review meeting of national highway projects chaired by Union minister of state for road transport and highways Harsh Malhotra during his visit to Patna.
State officials said expanding the expressways would help meet future traffic demand and significantly improve regional connectivity. If approved by the centre, the move could strengthen Bihar’s road network and enhance links not only with northern India but also with the northeastern states.
During the meeting, road construction department secretary Pankaj Kumar Pal presented the state’s proposal to the Union minister. He argued that building six-lane expressways from the outset would ensure long-term efficiency and reduce the need for costly upgrades in the future. At present, only the Patna–Purnia Expressway has received approval, but the state government wants upcoming projects to follow modern and larger infrastructure standards.
Progress on the proposed Patna Ring Road was also reviewed in detail. Officials briefed the minister about the alignment of the northern section of the project, particularly between Dighwara and Sarai. Authorities have been instructed to prepare and submit the detailed project report for the northern stretch quickly so that construction approvals can be secured without delay.
Traffic congestion in major cities was another key issue discussed in the meeting. Plans are being considered for a multi-level junction at Ramashish Chowk in Vaishali to reduce heavy traffic pressure. Similarly, officials were directed to develop safer junctions near the Madhoul and Kanti areas on the newly built bypass in Muzaffarpur to improve traffic flow and reduce accidents.
Authorities also discussed strengthening connectivity within the state capital. The government plans to integrate JP Ganga Path with Atal Path, Patli Path and the Digha–Sherpur Ganga Path to create a seamless urban road network. In addition, discussions were held on constructing a service road linking SH-74 with the Patna–Bettiah Road near the proposed Sonepur Airport, which officials say could further enhance regional connectivity.
