Patna: Patna is set for a major infrastructure and green makeover along the banks of the Ganga, with a new botanical garden and a large multipurpose ground coming up north of JP Ganga Path. The Bihar State Road Development Corporation (BSRDC) has begun soil filling work near the Metro Costing Yard in Rajapur, marking the start of the ambitious riverside development.
Officials said the new ground — planned at the site where the Ganga air show is held, in front of Sabhyata Dwar — will serve as an alternative to Gandhi Maidan. With Patna currently dependent on a single large venue for major events, the new space is expected to reduce traffic congestion and preserve the aesthetics of Gandhi Maidan.
Open Laboratory for Students and Conservation
A 10-acre botanical garden will be developed as an educational and environmental hub. It will showcase a wide range of plant species, including endangered varieties, and act as an open laboratory for students, researchers, and nature enthusiasts. Information on each plant, including botanical names, will be made available to promote scientific learning.
In line with National Green Tribunal guidelines, officials confirmed that no concrete will be used in the landscaping and park development.
Underpass to Connect Twin Parks
The Rs 387-crore project focuses on beautification and accessibility on both sides of JP Ganga Path. An underpass beneath the expressway will function as a tunnel, connecting the parks being constructed to the north and south. Landscaping will offer children’s play areas, open gyms, and recreational zones.
A six-meter-wide riverfront walkway from Digha to Sabhyata Dwar will allow citizens to enjoy uninterrupted morning walks along the Ganges.
Stone boulders will be placed along the north bank to prevent erosion during floods.
Ganga Channel to Get a New Look
In the second phase, the South Ganga Channel — stretching from Kurji to Sabhyata Dwar — will undergo a complete renovation. The upgraded channel will feature:
• 2-meter water depth
• Decorative fountains with lighting
• Paddle boating and motor boating facilities
• Clean Ganga water inflow near Kurji
• Regular drainage through sluice gates at Kurji and Sabhyata Dwar
The enhancements aim to increase tourism appeal while maintaining environmental balance.
Cultural Attractions and Smart Parking
The redeveloped riverfront will also highlight Bihar’s heritage:
• A butterfly park is planned south of JP Ganga Path, near Sabhyata Dwar
• An Urban Women’s Heart project will come up between Digha and Kurji
• A children’s play zone and open gym will be created between LCT and Rajapur
• More than 1 lakh plant species will be planted across the green corridor
• Traditional village elements, including Arawan Village, will showcase local culture
To reduce roadside parking issues, a smart parking facility will be developed between JP Ganga Path and Ashoka Rajpath — a 20-meter-wide strip extending from Sabhyata Dwar to Digha.
The Collectorate area will get a riverfront link up to Ekta Bhawan near the AN Sinha Institute, improving public access and tourism flow.
