Patna: Bihar is set for a major road infrastructure upgrade as the state government has submitted Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for several national highway, bypass, bridge and railway overbridge projects to the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways for final approval.
The proposed projects, with a combined estimated cost of more than Rs 15,000 crore, are expected to significantly improve road connectivity across the state. Construction will begin after the Centre grants approval.
New bypasses planned for Bettiah, Samastipur and Aurangabad
The Road Construction Department has proposed new bypasses for Bettiah, Samastipur and Aurangabad to reduce traffic congestion in urban areas and improve connectivity between districts.
In addition, DPRs worth more than Rs 2,200 crore have been prepared for the construction of two new bridges over the Kamla River in Jaynagar, along with a new bypass for the town.
New railway overbridges proposed at four locations
The state has also planned new Railway Overbridges (ROBs) at Dumraon, Bikramganj, Safiya Sarai and Jehanabad. These projects aim to eliminate delays at railway crossings, improve road safety and ensure smoother traffic movement.
Technical issues resolved, says department
Road Construction Department Secretary Pankaj Kumar Pal said the Bihar government and the Union Ministry are working in close coordination to strengthen the state’s transport infrastructure.
He said all technical observations raised by the ministry have been addressed within the stipulated timeline, clearing the way for early approval and execution of the projects.
Three mega projects account for over Rs 13,000 crore
Three large infrastructure projects form a major part of the proposal:
- Masrakh–Chakia: Bhittha Mor Road: A 146-km highway estimated to cost Rs 8,671.80 crore.
- Arwal–Bihar Sharif Road: An 89-km corridor with an estimated project cost of Rs 3,844.69 crore.
- Barbigha–Panjwara Road and Satighat Bridge: A strategic connectivity project estimated at Rs 974.37 crore.
Together, these three projects account for more than Rs 13,000 crore of the total proposed investment.
Projects expected to improve connectivity across Bihar
According to the Road Construction Department, the new bypasses will divert through traffic away from congested city centres, while the highways, bridges and railway overbridges will improve travel efficiency, reduce commuting time and strengthen Bihar’s overall road network.
