Patna: Bihar is set to undergo a major infrastructure transformation as the state government greenlights three significant road projects running parallel to the Ganges, with a combined cost of Rs 17,000 crore. The developments, spanning over 119 kilometres, aim to improve connectivity, stimulate local economies, and promote tourism along the riverbanks.
Roads and Construction Minister Nitin Nabin announced that the projects will be executed under the Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM), marking the first use of this funding mechanism for large-scale road development in Bihar. Under HAM, the state government will finance 40% of the costs, while private developers will contribute the remaining 60%, receiving annuity payments during the concession period.
The three roads approved for construction are: the Digha-Sherpur-Bihata-Koilwar (35.65 km), the Munger-Sultanganj road (42 km), and the Sultanganj-Bhagalpur-Sabour stretch (41.33 km). The Digha-Sherpur-Bihata-Koilwar project alone is estimated at Rs 6,495.79 crore, with the Munger-Sultanganj and Sultanganj-Bhagalpur-Sabour roads costing Rs 5,119.80 crore and Rs 4,849.83 crore respectively.
Nabin said the roads will create faster, wider, and more modern transport links, connecting towns and industrial centres such as Bihata, Koilwar, Munger, and Bhagalpur. “This model will accelerate infrastructure development and attract private investment to the state,” he added.
The Ganga Path corridor is also expected to enhance tourism by improving access to the river’s numerous historical and religious sites. Officials anticipate that better roads will encourage both domestic and international visitors, while facilitating smoother transport of goods to industrial hubs.
The tendering process for all three projects has been completed, and the land required for construction is ready. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is scheduled to lay the foundation stone for one of the projects on October 4, formally marking the launch of the next phase of the Ganga Path initiative.
Officials describe the development as part of a broader vision to create a ring road along the Ganges, which would also ease traffic congestion in Patna and neighbouring districts. Under CM Nitish’s leadership and with guidance from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Bihar is positioning itself for a significant leap in road infrastructure, economic growth, and regional connectivity.
