Patna : The JP Ganga Path, a vital arterial road, is set to undergo a major expansion aimed at enhancing connectivity between multiple cities and easing congestion in Patna and its surroundings. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar had announced the project during the Pragati Yatra, and the proposal received administrative approval in February.
Expanded Route and New Infrastructure
The expansion will extend the JP Ganga Path from Digha to Veer Kunwar Singh Setu in Koilwar and from Didarganj to Mokama. The consultant appointed for the project is expected to submit a preliminary report this month, paving the way for the preparation of the Detailed Project Report (DPR) and the tendering process.
A 36-kilometre stretch between Digha and Koilwar via Sherpur will feature an elevated road and a dam-side roadway. This section includes a 12.5-km elevated road from Digha to Sherpur, while the 23-km stretch between Sherpur and Koilwar will consist of a 4.5-km elevated road and an 18.5-km road built along the dam.
Improved Access to Ara and Beyond
The upgraded road network will facilitate easier access to Ara, with the six-lane bridge over the Sone River at Koilwar providing a direct route. Additionally, a new bridge will be constructed over the Sone River beyond Sherpur, connecting to the Veer Kunwar Singh Setu. The Didarganj-Mokama section in eastern Patna will also see the construction of new road infrastructure, improving connectivity across the region.
Relief from Traffic Congestion
The expansion of JP Ganga Path is expected to significantly reduce traffic congestion in Patna and nearby areas. With improved connectivity between North and South Bihar, the movement of goods and passengers will become smoother, cutting down travel time considerably. Key cities, including Begusarai, Chapra, Patna, Ara, Hajipur, and Samastipur, will benefit from this development.
Connectivity with Seven Bridges
A critical aspect of the project is the seamless connectivity with seven major bridges over the Ganga and Sone rivers:
- Koilwar Bridge
- Sherpur-Dighwara Bridge (under construction)
- JP Setu
- Mahatma Gandhi Setu
- Kacchi Dargah-Bidupur Bridge (under construction)
- Bakhtiyarpur-Tajpur Setu (under construction)
- Rajendra Setu
