Patna: Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary on Saturday reviewed a series of tourism, riverfront development and infrastructure projects, directing officials to expedite efforts aimed at strengthening the state’s cultural, historical and recreational landscape.
The review was conducted during a high-level meeting of the Water Resources Department, where officials presented updates on departmental assets, irrigation inspection bungalows, Ganga riverfront development initiatives and plans related to tourism and heritage conservation.
Water Resources Department Secretary Dr Chandrashekhar Singh gave a detailed presentation on the utilisation of departmental properties, the status of inspection bungalows and proposals for developing key sites linked to Bihar’s history and tourism sector.
One Lakh Saplings Along JP Ganga Path
During the meeting, Chaudhary directed officials to achieve the target of planting one lakh saplings along JP Ganga Path at the earliest.
He said Bihar’s historical legacy, cultural heritage and the Ganga riverfront constitute valuable assets whose preservation and development should remain a priority.
The Chief Minister instructed departments to prepare a coordinated action plan for the development of major tourist destinations across the state and to improve public awareness about these sites among domestic and international visitors.
He also stressed the need to revive and showcase the historical identity of ancient Pataliputra, calling for special schemes to be developed through inter-departmental coordination.
JP Ganga Path To Be Developed As Tourism Hub
Chaudhary said JP Ganga Path should evolve beyond its role as a transport corridor and emerge as a major centre for tourism, recreation and cultural activities.
According to him, the project has the potential to become a defining landmark for Patna and attract a larger number of visitors to the city.
The Chief Minister directed officials to examine the feasibility of operating and maintaining Irrigation Department inspection bungalows through Public-Private Partnership (PPP) and Design, Build, Operate and Maintain (DBOM) models.
He also called for a clear policy framework to convert these properties into modern guest houses to maximise the utilisation of departmental assets.
Integrated Development Of Riverfront Proposed
As part of the state’s long-term development strategy, Chaudhary directed officials to prepare an integrated development plan for the stretch between Kurji Ghat and Kali Ghat along the Ganga riverfront.
The proposal includes the creation of a comprehensive garden and park complex, expansion of green spaces and the development of tourism and public infrastructure facilities.
Officials were instructed to prioritise the project and transform the area into a major attraction for both residents and visitors.
The plan is expected to include civic amenities, recreational facilities and landscaped public spaces designed to enhance the riverfront experience.
Time-Bound Implementation Ordered
The Chief Minister directed officials to ensure that all approved proposals and projects are implemented within stipulated timelines.
Among those present at the meeting were Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Deepak Kumar, Development Commissioner Mihir Kumar Singh, Secretaries to the Chief Minister Lokesh Kumar Singh and Sanjay Kumar Singh, Water Resources Department Secretary Dr Chandrashekhar Singh, BUIDCO Managing Director Animesh Parashar, Patna Municipal Commissioner Yashpal Meena and Bihar State Road Development Corporation Limited Managing Director Shirshat Kapil Ashok.
