Chirag Gupta
Patna: Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman inspected the ongoing riverfront development along the Sugarway River in Jhanjharpur block and lauded the efforts of the Water Resources Department. The project includes a 400-meter riverfront, bank protection works, and a foot overbridge to facilitate tourist movement. The initiative aims to enhance the area’s aesthetics and provide flood protection to nearby institutions like Mithila Haat, Government Polytechnic College, and Government School. Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary, JDU Executive National President Sanjay Kumar Jha, and Principal Secretary of the Water Resources Department, Santosh Kumar Malla, were present during the visit.
Separately, Principal Secretary Santosh Kumar Malla inspected the SCADA-operated Sugarway Weir in Araria Sangram. Constructed in 2013 and modernised in 2022, the weir ensures irrigation for several villages in Jhanjharpur block. During the inspection, Malla personally operated a gate of the weir and emphasised regular monitoring and maintenance. Senior officials, including Chief Engineer NK Jha and Superintending Engineer Anil Kumar Mandal, accompanied him during the site visit.
Additionally, Malla reviewed the Sakri inspection building under construction in Madhubani district. With structural work nearing completion, beautification and final touches are targeted for February 2025. The Principal Secretary instructed officials to ensure timely completion of the project.
These developments underscore Bihar’s commitment to infrastructure improvement, flood management, and sustainable irrigation, benefiting local communities and fostering economic growth.
