Patna: The Bihar government has approved the construction of two major roads in Patna by covering existing drainage systems at a cost of Rs 286 crore. The project, proposed by the Urban Development Department, is expected to receive cabinet approval later this month.
The initiative will see a four-lane road built over the 4.05km-long Anandpuri drain, at a cost of Rs 105.20 crore, stretching from Baba Chowk to Atal Path. Meanwhile, a road will be constructed over the 4.26km-long Kurji drain, with an allocated budget of Rs 181 crore. The construction process is set to begin after the next month, following the tendering process and agency selection.
Both roads will be equipped with streetlights and landscaping features. Authorities estimate that the project will benefit around 2,00,000 residents across 60 localities, alleviating chronic traffic congestion and mitigating waterlogging issues during the monsoon season.
Patna has been undertaking multiple infrastructure projects to cover open drains and construct roads, aiming to improve urban mobility and sanitation. Several such projects are already in progress:
Saidpur Drain
The Saidpur drain serves the drainage needs of 14 municipal wards, spanning from Premchand Golambar in Rajendra Nagar to the Pahari Drainage Station, eventually flowing into the Punpun river. Currently, 60% of the drain is being covered, with a 20-foot-wide concrete road under construction on both sides. The project is expected to be completed within a year.
Bakarganj Drain
The 1.46km-long Bakarganj drain, which runs through key areas such as Salimpur Ahara, Bhanwar Pokhar, Daldali Road, and Rajendra Path, is also undergoing transformation. A road is being built over the section from Peermuhani Chowk to Anta Ghat, providing an additional route for local commuters. The work is scheduled to be completed within the year.
Kurji Drain
The Kurji drain stretches 4.26km from Rajiv Nagar to the Kurji Drainage Pumping Station. Some sections of the drain—particularly from BMP Kautilya Nagar to Bailey Road and from Bailey Road to Rajiv Nagar—have already been covered, with a two-lane road constructed. The latest phase of development will benefit residents in Baba Chowk, Patel Nagar, Atal Path, Kurji, and Rajiv Nagar.
Mandiri Drain
Covering the 1.28km Mandiri drain will enhance connectivity between Bailey Road and Ashok Rajpath, easing traffic congestion around the Bihar Museum and Eco Park. The existing two-lane road along the drain will be expanded into a four-lane road within the next six months.
