Patna: The alignment of the proposed Raxaul–Haldia Greenfield Expressway is set to undergo a major revision after officials found that a portion of the land selected for the expressway overlaps with land earmarked for the upcoming Raxaul Airport.
The move is aimed at preventing future legal and administrative disputes while ensuring that both infrastructure projects progress without delays.
Revised Proposal Sent to NHAI
During the route survey, officials identified overlapping land parcels in Kishni, Bharthari, Haraiya and Chandauli villages under Raxaul block. The same land had been marked for both the airport and the expressway projects.
To address the issue, the agency associated with the project has prepared a revised alignment plan and submitted it to the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) for approval.
Officials said the modification was necessary to avoid complications that could arise during land acquisition and construction stages.
Expressway May Start Near ICP
Under the revised proposal, the expressway may begin near the Integrated Check Post (ICP) instead of passing directly behind the proposed airport site.
The change is expected to strengthen connectivity with the ICP, a key gateway for international trade along the India–Nepal border.
The revised route could also lead to alignment changes in areas including Jaisinghpur, Nagar and Panthi Tola.
Land Acquisition Continues Across 56 Villages
The approximately 715-km-long Raxaul–Haldia Greenfield Expressway is one of the region’s major infrastructure projects, aimed at improving connectivity between Bihar and West Bengal.
The corridor is expected to significantly reduce freight travel time and facilitate smoother movement of goods between eastern India and Nepal.
Land acquisition proceedings are currently underway in 56 villages spread across eight blocks of East Champaran district.
Route Change Expected to Resolve Land Dispute
Officials believe the alignment revision will permanently eliminate the possibility of a land conflict between the airport and expressway projects.
The proposed direct link with the ICP is also expected to improve the movement of cargo vehicles and heavy commercial transport.
However, the revised alignment will require fresh surveys in newly affected areas. Authorities will also need to issue new notices to landowners and complete additional documentation before acquisition can proceed.
High-Tech Facilities Planned Along Corridor
The Greenfield Expressway is being designed as a controlled-access corridor where vehicles will be allowed to enter and exit only through designated points.
The project will feature service roads, flyovers, underpasses and modern toll plazas. Emergency ambulance services, petrol pumps, passenger rest areas and dedicated truck parking facilities are also planned to enhance safety and convenience for commuters and transport operators. :::
