Patna: Construction will soon begin on the extension of JP Ganga Path from Digha to Koilwar, in a move expected to ease chronic traffic congestion in Patna and significantly cut travel time to western parts of Bihar.
The 36km four-lane corridor, which will connect Digha near JP Setu to the new bridge at Koilwar via the Sherpur-Bihta route, is designed to reduce the journey between the two points to around 30 minutes. At present, commuters travelling from Patna to Koilwar rely on the old national highway via Maner or the Khagaul-Bihta road, where congestion can stretch travel time to up to two hours.
Officials said the project is aimed not only at improving commuting efficiency but also at decongesting key city routes by diverting through-traffic away from Patna’s core areas. Once completed, vehicles heading towards Ara and Buxar will be able to bypass the city entirely.
The project will be developed at an estimated cost of around Rs 6,500 crore. Of the total length, 18km will be elevated, while the remaining stretch will be constructed at ground level. The project is being implemented under the Hybrid Annuity Model, marking the first large-scale use of the funding mechanism in Bihar. Under this model, the executing agency will also be responsible for maintaining the road for 15 years after construction.
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The extension is expected to enhance regional connectivity beyond Patna, benefiting districts in Saran and Vaishali as well. It will also integrate with the upcoming Sherpur-Dighwara six-lane bridge, creating a new transport corridor linking north and south Bihar.
Authorities said plans are also in place to connect densely populated areas such as Danapur and Shahpur to the new route, potentially reducing pressure on existing urban roads and lowering pollution levels.
The project is being executed by Hyderabad-based infrastructure firm Viswa Samudra. Land acquisition for around 32km of the stretch has already been completed, and the government has set a target of finishing construction within four years.
Officials said the corridor is expected to play a key role in improving mobility, supporting economic activity and reshaping how people travel between Patna and adjoining districts.
