Patna: The Bihar government is moving ahead with plans to strengthen road infrastructure, with a key proposal to upgrade the existing two-lane road between Patna and Aurangabad into a four-lane highway.
The proposed route would extend approximately 160km, connecting Patna to Aurangabad and continuing onward to Hariharganj in neighbouring Jharkhand state. Officials say the project is intended to improve connectivity between districts and ease travel for residents commuting between Bihar and Jharkhand.
According to government sources, a proposal outlining the road’s alignment has been submitted to the union ministry of road transport and highways. The ministry has reportedly offered preliminary assurances regarding approval, although final clearance is still pending.
The upgraded highway is expected to pass through several key towns, including Arwal, Daudnagar, Obra and Aurangabad, before reaching Patna. Residents and local stakeholders have long called for the expansion, citing traffic congestion and the limitations of the current two-lane route.
Earlier attempts to secure approval for the widening project were unsuccessful. However, renewed demand has brought the proposal back into focus, with the matter now reportedly under the consideration of the union transport minister, Nitin Gadkari.
In addition to expanding the main carriageway, officials are also considering the construction of bypasses in several towns along the route, including Aurangabad, Arwal, Obra and Daudnagar. These bypasses are expected to reduce congestion within urban areas and streamline long-distance travel.
If approved, the project is likely to play a significant role in enhancing regional connectivity, supporting economic activity and improving transport efficiency across central Bihar.
