Patna: Construction of the new four-lane bridge over the Ganga River, being built parallel to the Mahatma Gandhi Setu, has reached approximately 73% completion, according to officials from the Road Construction Department.
The project, which is expected to significantly improve connectivity between Patna and Hajipur, is on track for completion by December 2026 as per the latest government directive.
Project Progress and Current Status
A recent inspection by officials from the Road Construction Department confirmed that major structural components of the bridge have already been completed.
Work on several sections, including pylons, spans, and deck slabs, has been finalised, while remaining construction activities are progressing at a steady pace. Officials said the superstructure of the bridge is largely complete.
Road Construction Minister Kumar Shailendra has instructed executing agencies to adhere strictly to the deadline while maintaining construction quality.
Project Scope and Specifications
The main bridge spans around 5.6 kilometres across the Ganga. Including approach roads, rail overbridges, and connecting flyovers, the total project length extends to 14.5 kilometres.
Once completed, the infrastructure will operate alongside the existing Mahatma Gandhi Setu, effectively expanding the total crossing capacity between Patna and Hajipur.
Timeline and Funding
The project has an estimated cost of Rs 2,926.42 crore and was approved by the Union Cabinet on December 17, 2018.
Although initial clearance delays slowed the start of construction, the contract was awarded on September 4, 2020, with on-ground work beginning in 2021.
Since then, the project has progressed in phases, with steady advancement in structural completion.
Traffic Relief and Regional Connectivity
Once operational, the new bridge will double the crossing capacity in the corridor, creating an eight-lane system when combined with the existing Mahatma Gandhi Setu.
Officials expect this to substantially reduce traffic congestion on one of Bihar’s busiest routes.
The improved connectivity is also expected to benefit commuters from Vaishali, Muzaffarpur, and Saran districts, reducing travel time and improving road safety across the region.
