Patna: Bihar is preparing to expand its road network along the Ganga, with three proposed Ganga Path projects covering approximately 219 km. The planned roads will connect Bidupur–Dighwara, Buxar–Koilwar and Konhua–Dumaria Ghat, improving road connectivity across several parts of the state.
The selected consultants have begun work on the projects and have been directed to prepare Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) within three months. Once the reports are completed, the process of inviting construction tenders will move forward. Construction is being planned to begin in the new year, subject to the completion of the required procedures.
The projects are being handled under the supervision of the Bihar State Road Development Corporation (BSRDC).
1. Ambika Path: Bidupur to Dighwara — 56 Km
The first proposed road, named Ambika Path, will run for approximately 56 km between Bidupur and Dighwara along the southern side of the Ganga.
The project is intended to improve road connectivity between northern and southern Bihar and make travel easier for residents of surrounding areas. It is also expected to strengthen links between Patna and settlements along the river.
The final alignment, estimated project cost and other technical details will be assessed as part of the DPR preparation.
2. Vishwamitra Path: Buxar to Koilwar via Ara — 90 Km
The second project, Vishwamitra Path, is planned to cover around 90 km, connecting Buxar with Koilwar via Ara and extending towards Maner.
The proposed road is expected to improve connectivity across western Bihar and provide an additional route for traffic travelling towards and from Patna.
The plan comes as the extension of the JP Ganga Path towards Maner has already received approval, according to the report. The proposed Buxar–Ara–Koilwar corridor could further strengthen road access along the Ganga.
3. Narayani Path: Konhua to Dumaria Ghat — 73 Km
The third proposed road, named Narayani Path, will stretch for approximately 73 km, from Darihara (Konhua) in Saran district to Dumaria Ghat in Gopalganj district.
The road is intended to improve connectivity in the Saran and Gopalganj regions and make travel towards Uttar Pradesh easier for commuters using the corridor.
The final route and technical requirements will be determined after the consultants complete their assessment.
DPRs to Assess Traffic for the Next 25 Years
The initial alignments of all three projects have been identified. Consultants will now study the routes in greater detail before finalising the alignments and preparing the DPRs.
The reports will assess:
- Final road alignment and technical requirements.
- Land-related issues and requirements for construction.
- Estimated project costs and implementation needs.
- Traffic projections for the next 25 years, to help determine road capacity and design.
- Potential toll revenue from the proposed roads.
The long-term traffic assessment is intended to ensure that the roads are designed to accommodate projected demand rather than only current traffic levels.
Tenders to Follow Completion of Project Reports
After the DPRs are completed, the next stage will involve moving towards the tendering process for construction. The final costs, alignments and implementation details will depend on the findings of the studies and subsequent approvals.
The three projects are expected to expand Bihar’s road network along the Ganga and improve connections between districts. However, construction timelines will depend on the completion of planning, tendering and other required procedures.
