Patna: Bihar government is working on a large-scale redevelopment plan to transform Patna’s Marine Drive into a modern tourism corridor, featuring a dedicated women-led marketplace, upgraded public infrastructure and expanded riverfront access along the Ganga.
The project focuses on combining tourism development with women’s economic empowerment through the creation of a ‘Mahila Haat’ exclusively for Jeevika Didis associated with the state’s self-help group network.
Tourism Corridor Along the Ganga
As part of the plan, a continuous riverfront corridor will be developed along the banks of the Ganga, with landscaped stretches, seating areas, lighting systems and public walkways.
A key component of the project includes a 6-kilometre-long walkway designed to encourage morning and evening footfall, offering uninterrupted views of the river and improved recreational spaces for residents and visitors.
The initiative also aims to enhance cultural visibility by enabling organised viewing arrangements for Ganga Aarti, which is expected to become a key attraction for tourists.
Mahila Haat For Jeevika Didis
A central feature of the redevelopment is the proposed ‘Mahila Haat’, which will be reserved exclusively for women entrepreneurs from Jeevika self-help groups.
According to the plan, only Jeevika Didis will be permitted to set up stalls in this dedicated market space. The haat will promote the sale of local food products, handicrafts, Khadi items and household goods.
Officials said the initiative is intended to strengthen self-employment opportunities for women across rural and urban Bihar, while creating a structured platform for small-scale enterprises.
Infrastructure Expansion and Traffic Management
The redevelopment also includes expansion of cycle tracks, pedestrian facilities and parking infrastructure along JP Ganga Path, which forms a key part of the city’s riverfront development.
A large-scale parking facility is being developed with capacity for thousands of vehicles, aimed at reducing roadside congestion, particularly during evening peak hours when public movement along the riverfront increases.
Authorities said improved parking arrangements for both two-wheelers and four-wheelers are expected to streamline traffic flow and reduce pressure on surrounding roads.
Tourism Push and Urban Planning
The government views the project as a step towards positioning Patna’s riverfront as a major urban tourism destination, combining leisure, culture and commerce.
Once completed, the Marine Drive stretch is expected to function as a multi-use public space, integrating tourism infrastructure with livelihood generation for women’s groups.
Officials added that the project is designed to balance urban development with inclusive economic participation, with a particular focus on strengthening grassroots entrepreneurship networks.
