Bhagalpur/Patna: The long-stalled Ganga riverfront project in Sultanganj, under BHagalpur district, is set to resume after a major regulatory obstacle was resolved, officials said on Saturday.
The scheme, seen as a significant upgrade for local residents and the millions of Kanwariya pilgrims who pass through the town each year, was delayed for more than a year while awaiting wildlife clearance. Authorities now say the no-objection certificate process is nearing completion and construction could begin before the start of the world-famous Shravani Mela this year.
Local MLA Prof Lalit Narayan Mandal said the project had received approval from Delhi, clearing the way for the next administrative steps. Under existing rules, 2% of the total project cost must be deposited with the government before final clearance is issued.
Officials said approximately Rs. 2.99 crore must now be paid by the local administration. A formal communication has reportedly been sent to the relevant department in Bhagalpur instructing it to release the funds.
Engineer Aditya Prakash said preparations to transfer the money were under way. Once the payment is made, the final NOC is expected to be issued within 10 to 15 days, after which the contractor could be instructed to begin work immediately.
Mandal said no further major obstacles were expected and pledged that construction would start before the Shravani Mela begins.
When completed, the riverfront is expected to transform the appearance of Sultanganj’s ghats and improve access and facilities for the large number of Lord Shiva devotees who gather there every year.
