Bhagalpur/Patna: Chief minister Samrat Chaudhary, has directed officials to accelerate work on the proposed Ganga Path infrastructure projects linking Munger and Bhagalpur, stressing improved connectivity, faster land acquisition and integrated urban development along the river corridor.
At a review meeting held at Babuaghat in Munger on Tuesday, Chaudhary assessed progress on two key projects : The Munger (Safiyabad)–Bariarpur–Ghorghat–Sultanganj corridor and the Sultanganj–Bhagalpur–Sabour stretch. The projects, designed as a mix of elevated and at-grade four-lane roads running parallel to the Ganges, aim to ease traffic congestion while enhancing access to religious and tourist sites.
Officials said the Safiyabad-to-Sultanganj section will span 42km, while the Sultanganj-to-Sabour stretch will cover 41.33km. Both projects are being developed under a hybrid annuity model, with 40% government funding and 60% private investment, and are expected to be completed within four years.
Chaudhary emphasised that alignment planning should maximise connectivity with existing roads and bridges while minimising disruption to residents. He also called for the project to function, where possible, as a protective embankment for urban areas, favouring at-grade construction over elevated sections except in densely populated or sensitive zones.
The chief minister instructed officials to identify land between Munger and Bariarpur for a proposed new township and to earmark space for industrial development. He also pushed for the expansion of Munger airport, including facilities for night landings.
The project includes redevelopment of river ghats, with 34 ghats identified along the Sultanganj–Sabour stretch. Plans also feature toll plazas, bus bays, truck lay-bys, viewing points and a rest area near Aguwani Ghat. Authorities estimate that nearly 700 acres of land will be required, with acquisition currently under way.
Following the meeting, Chaudhary conducted a site inspection of the proposed corridor and issued further instructions to officials on execution.
The government says the project will significantly reduce travel time and costs as well between Munger and Bhagalpur, while boosting tourism, improving access to religious sites and supporting broader economic growth along the Ganges riverfront.
During his visit to Munger, Chaudhary also met Swami Niranjanananda Saraswati at Bihar Yoga Vidyalaya and attended a religious ceremony, offering prayers for the state’s prosperity.
Senior ministers, legislators and district officials were present at the review meeting.
