Patna: Construction of the six-lane bridge across the Ganga River connecting Sherpur in Danapur to Dighwara in Saran district is progressing rapidly, with the project expected to be completed by 2028. The bridge, spanning around 14.5 kilometres, is being developed as a key component of the proposed Patna Ring Road project.
Officials associated with the project said the bridge is expected to significantly improve connectivity between North and South Bihar and reduce travel time between Patna, Danapur, Dighwara and neighbouring districts.
The bridge is being constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 3,012 crore by S.P. Singla Construction Pvt Ltd. Work is currently underway on both sides of the river, with pier construction progressing near Dighwara while large pillars are simultaneously being erected within the riverbed.
Key Component of Patna Ring Road
According to project details, the bridge alignment will begin near the 8-kilometre mark at Sherpur and extend up to the 23-kilometre point near Dighwara. Once operational, it will connect NH-131G with NH-19, strengthening road connectivity across several districts in central Bihar.
The project also includes a 10-year maintenance responsibility clause under which the construction company will oversee the upkeep of the bridge after completion.
At present, commuters travelling between Dighwara and Danapur are required to take longer routes through Patna, leading to increased travel time and fuel costs. The new bridge is expected to provide a more direct route and improve traffic movement in the region.
Traffic Pressure on Existing Bridges Expected to Reduce
Officials and local residents expect the bridge to ease vehicular pressure on existing corridors including the JP Setu, Koilwar Bridge and the Ara–Doriganj route.
The project is also expected to improve access to the upcoming airport in Bihta. Sources associated with the development said the distance between Chhapra and the Bihta airport corridor could reduce by nearly 40 kilometres after the bridge becomes operational.
Religious Tourism and Riverfront Connectivity
The bridge is also being viewed as an important infrastructure project for religious tourism. Improved road access is expected to benefit devotees visiting the Baba Hariharnath Temple in Sonepur and the Maa Ambika Bhawani Temple in Ami.
The proposed connectivity with the riverfront road being developed along the northern bank of the Ganges is expected to further strengthen tourism infrastructure in the region.
Real Estate Activity Gains Momentum
The ongoing construction has already started influencing the local real estate market in Dighwara and nearby areas. Residents and property dealers said land prices in the region have risen steadily following the announcement and progress of the project.
Investors have reportedly shown increased interest in land parcels located near the proposed connectivity corridor, with expectations of future commercial development.
Wider Infrastructure Expansion Underway
The bridge project is being developed alongside other major infrastructure works in the region, including the Hajipur–Chhapra four-lane road and the proposed Patna–Purnia Greenfield Expressway.
Locals believe the combined impact of these projects could transform the region into a major transport and commercial hub in the coming years.
Residents and traders also expect the project to generate employment opportunities in sectors such as transport, hospitality, trade and small-scale industries once the bridge becomes operational.
