Patna : The much-anticipated Patna-Purnia Expressway, a project expected to transform Bihar’s infrastructure, is set to begin construction soon. Land acquisition has been initiated for the state’s first greenfield expressway, which will pass through six districts, covering 3381.2 hectares across 250 villages in 29 blocks. The project, estimated to cost around Rs9,467 crore, is expected to significantly boost the livelihoods of farmers and improve connectivity across the region.
Flood-Affected Districts to Benefit
The expressway will provide a lifeline to 15 blocks in four flood-prone districts — Darbhanga, Saharsa, Samastipur, and Madhepura. These areas, frequently ravaged by floods, will experience improved connectivity and better flood management, as the expressway will traverse major rivers, including the Gandak, Budhi Gandak, Bagmati, Kamla, Dudhauli, and Kosi. Bridges constructed across these rivers will reduce flood risks and ensure year-round access for villagers, enabling farmers to transport their produce to larger markets more efficiently.
Seamless Connectivity Across Highways
The Patna-Purnia Expressway will integrate with 11 National Highways (NH) and 10 State Highways (SH), enhancing the region’s transportation network. Designed for a maximum speed of 120 km per hour, the 281.95 km-long expressway will begin at Mirnagar in Vaishali and culminate at Chand Bhatti in Purnia, passing through Samastipur, Darbhanga, Saharsa, and Madhepura. The expressway, which is expected to cost Rs18,042 crore, will feature 21 large bridges, 140 small bridges, 11 railway overbridges, 21 interchanges, and 322 underpasses, ensuring smooth and efficient transit.
Patna to Purnia in Just Three Hours
Upon completion, the expressway will slash travel time between Patna and Purnia from the current 7-8 hours to just 3 hours. Additional connecting roads will be constructed to link Samastipur, Saharsa, and Madhepura to the expressway, further enhancing regional connectivity. The project will follow green mapping principles to ensure environmental sustainability, balancing infrastructural development with ecological preservation.
