Patna: The Bihar government has introduced a major change in its riverfront development strategy for JP Ganga Path, deciding to relocate all street vendors to a dedicated vending zone in Digha instead of permitting commercial shops along the Ganges riverbank.
Under the revised plan, the entire stretch of the Ganga Path will be developed as a green corridor and public park under the Mukhyamantri Samagra Udyan Yojana.
Vendors To Be Shifted By May 15
Officials said the new Digha Vending Zone is currently under construction and approximately 250 vendors are expected to be shifted there by May 15.
The vending zone, being developed on nearly 1.93 acres beneath the Digha Roundabout near Atal Path, is intended to function as a modern food and entertainment hub.
Authorities said the first phase involves construction of PCC roads and paver block infrastructure, after which vendors will be allotted spaces. The second phase will focus on transforming the area into a full-fledged recreational zone.
Entertainment Zone, Amphitheatre And Selfie Points Planned
According to officials, the vending zone will feature:
- An entertainment zone
- Amphitheatre
- Kids’ zone
- Parking facilities
- Drinking water stations
- Restrooms
- High-mast lighting
- Decorative landscaping
- Dedicated selfie points
The project is also aimed at removing encroachments along Ganga Path and easing traffic congestion near Digha Roundabout.
CM Orders Removal Of Shops Along Riverfront
The original proposal had envisioned construction of prefabricated commercial shops along the Ganga Path riverbank.
As part of the Patna Smart City project, 50 modern shops were being constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 7.18 crore.
However, during a recent inspection, Samrat Choudhary reportedly directed officials not to permit any shops along the riverfront and instead develop the entire stretch as a landscaped public garden with walking pathways.
Officials said no formal written order had yet been issued, and implementation decisions were currently pending following the appointment of a new minister in the department.
Earlier Commercial Plan Included 50 Shops
Under the earlier blueprint, 45 shops measuring 16 feet by 10 feet and five larger shops measuring 20 feet by 10 feet were planned in five clusters along the riverfront.
The shops were designed with facilities including electricity, drainage, plumbing, LED lighting, washbasins, exhaust systems and branding infrastructure.
The estimated cost of the broader vending and shop development project had been pegged at approximately Rs 15.45 crore.
Authorities said the revised riverfront vision now prioritised greenery, public recreation and pedestrian-friendly spaces along the Ganges corridor.
