Patna, 5 August 2025 — Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Tuesday laid the foundation stone for the Salepur–Rajgir four-lane highway and inaugurated a newly constructed railway overbridge (ROB) on National Highway 82 in Rajgir, Nalanda district.
Speaking at the foundation stone laying ceremony held at Belua in Silav, the Chief Minister said the 862.63 crore-rupee highway project would reduce the travel distance between Patna and Rajgir by nearly 20 km, easing access to key locations such as the upcoming international sports complex, Rajgir airport, Nalanda University and the Buddhist tourism circuit.
“This new road will not only cut travel time but also accelerate economic and industrial growth in the region while giving a significant boost to tourism,” Kumar said.
The four-lane highway will run from Salepur (SH-78) to Belua (Rajgir) via Nursarai, Ahiyapur and Silav, linking various key routes including the Bihta-Sarmera State Highway, Salepur-Karauta Road, Bihar Sharif–Jehanabad National Highway (NH-33) and the Bihar Sharif–Rajgir–Gaya–Dumraon National Highway (NH-120).
Later, the Chief Minister inaugurated the newly completed Rajgir ROB near Hasanpur village, built at a cost of Rs 81.37 crore. The overbridge, located on the old NH-82 (now part of NH-120) at Sardar Patel Halt, is expected to ease traffic congestion caused by the earlier level crossing. It also connects to the Rajgir Sports Complex, located around 8 km away.
Describing the ROB as a crucial development for the region, Kumar said, “This overbridge will ease movement, reduce traffic jams, and provide direct connectivity to the Rajgir Sports Complex.”
The Chief Minister also visited the Rajgir Sports Complex to review preparations for the upcoming Asia Rugby Under-20 Championship. He met with players and staff, offering encouragement ahead of the international tournament.
Later, Kumar visited the Bhutanese temple in Rajgir where he offered prayers for peace and prosperity in Bihar.
