Muzaffarpur: The long-awaited Muzaffarpur–Sonbarsa (Nepal border) four-lane highway project has gained momentum, with the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) taking key steps to move the project closer to execution.
NHAI has submitted the project’s Detailed Design Report (DDR) and General Arrangement Drawing (GAD) to the Railway authorities for approval. Railway officials have also conducted a physical inspection of the proposed Railway Over Bridge (ROB) site and the areas adjoining the railway tracks.
Project Cost Rises to Rs 3,590.70 Crore
The project has been delayed by nearly three to four years due to technical challenges and administrative procedures. As a result, the estimated cost has increased significantly from the initial Rs 2,500 crore to Rs 3,590.70 crore.
The project was also discussed during a recent Cabinet meeting, and the final approval for financial allocation is expected soon.
472 Hectares of Land Acquired
For the construction of the four-lane highway, 472 hectares of land between Muzaffarpur and Sonbarsa have already been acquired.
NHAI, in coordination with the district administration, has completed the land survey and boundary demarcation process for the acquired land. Documentation related to a few remaining land parcels in parts of Muzaffarpur district is still underway.
Forest Clearance and Railway Approval Awaited
The Forest Department has completed the assessment of roadside trees along the proposed alignment and submitted its report. A No Objection Certificate (NOC) is expected to be issued shortly.
Once approvals from the Railway authorities and the Forest Department are received, NHAI is expected to initiate the tendering process for the project.
Improved Connectivity to Nepal Border
The four-lane highway is expected to significantly improve road connectivity between Muzaffarpur and Sonbarsa on the India–Nepal border, reducing travel time and facilitating smoother movement of passengers and goods.
The project is also expected to strengthen transport infrastructure in north Bihar and enhance connectivity with the Nepal border, providing a boost to regional trade and economic activity.
