Patna: Bihar government has started a large-scale urban drinking water upgrade under the central government’s AMRUT (Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation) 2.0 scheme, with 21 projects worth Rs. 2,451.39 crore planned to address water shortages in towns and cities across the state. Officials said the programme is expected to bring clean drinking water to lakhs of households.
According to the state authorities, 18 projects worth Rs. 2,110.31 crore have already been approved, while three additional proposals worth Rs. 341.08 crore remain in the pipeline. Eight schemes have also been assigned for preparation of detailed project reports (DPRs).
Managing Director of BUDCO, Animesh Kumar Parashar, directed officials to ensure quality execution, maintain continuous monitoring and complete works within stipulated timelines. He also asked officers not to rely solely on implementing agencies, but to independently inspect project sites and submit reports to headquarters.
Progress of Works
Of the 21 schemes currently listed:
- 9 projects are under active construction
- 9 projects are in the tendering stage
- 3 projects remain in the proposed phase
Major Projects Announced
Among the key allocations are:
- Patna (Phase 1): Rs. 1,308.46 crore
- Gaya (Phase 3): Rs. 191.09 crore
- Khagaria (Phase 1): Rs. 129.90 crore
- Samastipur (Phase 1): Rs. 129.85 crore
- Sitamarhi: Rs. 118.10 crore
- Lakhisarai (Phase 2): Rs. 52.59 crore
- Munger (Phase 1): Rs. 50.28 crore
- Kishanganj (Phase 3): Rs. 34.38 crore
Key Features of the Scheme
Authorities said the projects will focus on:
- Replacing old and damaged pipelines
- Preventing leakages in the network
- Modernising water distribution systems
- Expanding the capacity of treatment plants
The investment comes as Bihar’s urban centres face growing pressure on civic infrastructure amid rising population and increasing summer demand for potable water.
