Patna: The Bihar government has notified new regulations for the settlement and management of boat ghats across the state, introducing an open auction system for leasing government-owned ghats.
The new framework, titled the Bihar Boat Ghat Settlement and Management Rules, 2026, was approved by the state Cabinet last week. The government has now issued formal orders to implement the regulations.
Government Ghats To Be Leased Through Open Auctions
Under the new rules, government-owned boat ghats will be allotted through an open auction process.
The highest bidder will receive the right to operate the ghat for a period ranging from three to five years, according to the notified regulations.
Rules Cover Public And Private Boat Ghats
The regulations establish a comprehensive framework for the establishment, operation and settlement of both government-owned and privately managed boat ghats.
They also lay down provisions relating to boat registration, toll collection, monitoring mechanisms, penalties for violations and the process for filing appeals.
Government Aims To Improve Transparency
According to the state government, the new auction-based system is intended to make the settlement process more transparent while increasing revenue from boat ghat operations.
Officials said the reforms are also expected to improve facilities for passengers using river crossings and support the movement of goods through inland waterways.
Revenue To Be Reinvested In Ghat Infrastructure
The government said revenue generated from boat ghats will be used for the maintenance, repair and cleanliness of the facilities.
The funds will also be utilised to improve passenger amenities and strengthen infrastructure at river transport points across the state.
Focus On Safer River Transport
According to the government, the Bihar Boat Ghat Settlement and Management Rules, 2026 are expected to make the state’s river transport system more organised, accountable and safe by introducing uniform operational standards and a structured management framework.
