Patna: Construction work on the 124.41-km-long Munger–Mirzachowki Greenfield four-lane highway in Bihar has reached nearly 70% completion, with authorities targeting full completion by July. The road is expected to be opened for public use by August.
The project is being developed by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) at an estimated cost of Rs 5,788 crore and will pass through Munger, Bhagalpur and Banka districts in Bihar before extending up to Mirzachowki in Jharkhand.
Major travel time reduction expected
At present, the 70-km journey between Munger and Bhagalpur takes around 2 to 3 hours, and often stretches up to 4–5 hours due to traffic congestion. Once the new highway becomes operational, the same distance is expected to be covered in just about one hour.
The improved connectivity is expected to significantly benefit daily commuters, traders, patients and students traveling across the region.
Strategic connectivity boost for eastern India
According to NHAI project in-charge Nitish Kumar, the corridor will improve connectivity between eastern Bihar and Jharkhand, and further enhance access towards West Bengal.
The highway is expected to reduce travel time not only between regional cities but also improve long-distance movement towards Patna via Bhagalpur.
Toll plazas and safety infrastructure
Two modern toll plazas are being developed at Kalyanpur in Munger and Pirpainti in Bhagalpur. In addition, foot overbridges are also under construction at these locations to enhance pedestrian safety and reduce accident risks.
Construction progress in Munger region
In Munger district, which accounts for around 22.5 km of the project, most of the work between Herudihara and Ghorghat has been completed. Remaining tasks include finishing work, earth filling and technical adjustments.
Earlier technical hurdles near Patam railway halt, Ramnagar petrol pump and Telia Talab have now been resolved, and these stretches have been integrated into the main alignment. Earthwork and levelling are currently underway, followed by final surfacing.
Electric pole shifting and height adjustment work near NH-80 bypass in Barhiya area have also been completed to ensure smooth road alignment.
Economic impact expected across Bihar–Jharkhand belt
The highway is expected to strengthen connectivity across Munger, Sultanganj, Bhagalpur, Ghogha, Kahalgaon, Pirpainti and Mirzachowki, boosting trade and industrial movement.
Experts believe improved road infrastructure will attract investment, reduce logistics costs and generate new employment opportunities in the region.
Rising land prices along the corridor
Land prices along the highway route have already begun rising sharply. In several areas across Munger, Jamalpur, Bhagalpur and surrounding regions, property rates near the highway alignment have reportedly doubled since the announcement of the project.
Local traders expect further price appreciation as commercial activity increases after the highway becomes operational.
Speed limits and traffic regulations
Traffic officials have clarified maximum speed limits for vehicles on the expressway once operational. Small vehicles such as cars will be allowed up to 100 kmph, passenger vehicles up to 90 kmph, and goods carriers and two-wheelers up to 80 kmph.
On hilly or curved stretches, speed limits will be reduced to 80 kmph for light vehicles and 60 kmph for heavy vehicles to ensure safety.
Monitoring and execution
Officials confirmed that the project, launched in 2022, has been divided into four construction packages. Continuous monitoring is being carried out by district administration and NHAI teams to ensure timely completion.
Munger District Magistrate Nikhil Dhanraj Nipanikar said regular coordination is being maintained between agencies to keep the project on schedule.
