Patna: Vehicles are expected to start running on the Munger-Mirzachauki four-lane road by May 2025, following a five-month extension granted to the construction agency by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). Although the work is currently progressing slowly, it is expected to accelerate after Durga Puja. The project is anticipated to be completed within seven months, providing relief from traffic congestion for the residents of Bhagalpur and nearby districts.
The construction of the four-lane road, part of a larger green project, was halted in August due to several factors, including delays in land acquisition and the irregular supply of fly ash from NTPC. In light of these challenges, the construction company requested an extension, which NHAI approved. The original deadline for completion was December 2024, but the project is now scheduled for completion by May 2025.
To date, less than 60% of the Munger-Mirzachauki four-lane road has been completed. The project, valued at Rs. 5474 crore, was initially slated for completion in two years but will now take two and a half years. Two construction agencies, Monte Carlo and Apco, are jointly responsible for the project, which has been divided into four sections.
In Bhagalpur, the construction is being executed in three sections, covering 97 kilometers from Kharia village to Mirzachauki. Delays have been caused by incomplete land acquisition and the inconsistent supply of fly ash, which has hindered progress. Both Monte Carlo and Apco requested an extension due to these issues.
The project requires approximately 53 lakh cubic meters of fly ash, with 1,000 to 1,200 truckloads needed daily. However, only 50 trucks were being supplied, severely affecting progress. Despite the initial plan to complete the road within two years, ongoing challenges with land acquisition and fly ash supply have pushed the completion date.
Of the 37 kilometers between Rasalpur and Mirzachauki, 24 kilometers of road have been completed so far, with work still pending in certain areas where land has yet to be acquired.
