Patna: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Friday announced developmental projects worth Rs 110.65 crore for Arwal district as part of his ongoing Pragati Yatra. The projects, which include infrastructure, irrigation, education, and health initiatives, were inaugurated and launched remotely.
During his visit, CM Nitish unveiled the renovated sluice gate and drainage system in Mahavirganj, Karpi block, at a cost of Rs 3.5 crore. He inspected the work and expressed satisfaction, noting that the improvements would enhance irrigation facilities for local farmers and boost agricultural yields.
The chief minister also reviewed the renovation of the Belkhara Aahar-Pain irrigation scheme and Chhath Ghat under the Jal-Jeevan-Hariyali Yojana. Officials briefed him on the desilting of the 1,800-metre-long aahar, which will now irrigate 300 hectares, benefiting villages including Belkhara, Radhe Bigha, and Sheikhpura. Kumar praised the development of Chhath Ghat, calling it an important facility for devotees and locals.
Among the major projects, CM Nitish inaugurated the Government Degree College in Arwal, constructed at a cost of Rs 50.47 crore. During his inspection, he was informed that the college offers co-education, with 80% of the enrolled students being women.
In Belkhara, the chief minister inaugurated a rural garden worth Rs 14.9 lakh, alongside the renovated Surya Mandir, Chhath Ghat, and Pokhara. He noted that the proximity of these sites enhances their appeal as a cultural and recreational space. A health and wellness centre built at a cost of Rs 75 lakh was also inaugurated, with CM Nitish inspecting medical facilities and services, including a testing house, medicine distribution centre, and vaccination ward.
A sports complex worth Rs 9.95 lakh was launched in Belkhara, where CM Nitish interacted with players who thanked him for the facility. He also visited stalls set up by Jeevika self-help groups, engaging with the women entrepreneurs and lauding their efforts towards self-reliance. He highlighted the state government’s role in expanding self-help groups since 2006, increasing their numbers significantly and fostering economic empowerment.
During the event, CM Nitish distributed symbolic cheques and assistance to beneficiaries under various welfare schemes, including Rs 5.7 crore for livelihood enhancement under the Sustainable Livelihood Scheme, Rs 85.85 crore in bank loans to 3,515 Jeevika-supported self-help groups, and Rs 4 lakh under the Chief Minister Disabled and Intercaste Marriage Promotion Schemes. He also handed over the keys of a renovated pond in Simuara village to the Ganga Jeevika Mahila Gram Sangathan.
The chief minister further reviewed the proposed 4.45 km road project connecting the new bus stand to Baidarabad, costing Rs 46.1 crore. The road, once completed, is expected to benefit about 50,000 residents and ease congestion in Arwal and Baidarabad markets.
CM Nitish reaffirmed his government’s commitment to infrastructure development, irrigation enhancement, and women’s empowerment in Bihar, urging officials to resolve issues faced by Jeevika beneficiaries promptly. The Pragati Yatra, aimed at assessing ongoing projects and engaging with communities, continues across the state.
