Bhagalpur/Patna:A World Bank delegation on Friday reviewed a series of urban infrastructure proposals in Bhagalpur, including plans for a green corridor connecting Bhutnath Temple Ghat, Bhairava Talab and Companybagh Talab.
The visit marked the team’s second tour of the city within a month as discussions continue between the World Bank and the Bihar government on funding urban development projects.
Under the proposed first phase, Bhagalpur and Patna are expected to receive a combined allocation of Rs. 500 crore. Officials said Bhagalpur could receive nearly Rs. 250 crore.
Green corridor and tourism development proposed
Officials discussed a proposal to develop a green corridor linking water bodies and tourism sites in the city. Around RS. 100 crore is expected to be spent on beautification works, road connectivity and development of riverfront ghats across an area of nearly 1.5 kilometres.
The civic body is also planning the development of parks across all 51 municipal wards.
Following the meeting, the World Bank team, along with Mayor Dr Basundhara Lal and Municipal Commissioner Kisalaya Kushwaha, inspected the Bhutnath Temple Ghat area to assess available land and nearby infrastructure.
The mayor said the site had significant potential for tourism and recreational development.
Drainage and sewerage projects discussed
During a meeting at the Bhagalpur Smart City office, officials discussed projects related to drainage, sewerage, underground electricity networks, park management and pond and ghat redevelopment.
Around Rs. 150 crore from the proposed funding is expected to be used to strengthen the city’s drainage infrastructure. Officials said a detailed project report (DPR) has already been prepared and administrative approval obtained.
The proposed drainage system is aimed at reducing waterlogging in urban areas.
Underground power network may be taken up in second phase
Officials also discussed the possibility of laying underground electricity cables in a future phase of the programme. The project is estimated to cost around RS. 300 crore.
A separate sewer line project, estimated at RS. 200 crore, was also reviewed during the discussions.
Mayor Basundhara Lal said Bhagalpur should receive a larger share of the World Bank funding, arguing that Patna already had stronger urban infrastructure while Bhagalpur continued to face gaps in basic civic services.
The World Bank team reportedly said additional funds could be considered in subsequent phases. The delegation also stressed the need for a modern bus stand in the city.
Smart City Board meeting in Patna today
Municipal Commissioner Kisalaya Kushwaha said the civic body had prepared DPRs and survey reports for multiple projects, but sought clarity on the final amount of World Bank funding before finalising implementation plans.
The World Bank delegation included representatives Rosana Nitti and Vasudha Thawkar. Abhishek Anand, project officer and additional director in the Urban Development and Housing Department, coordinated the visit
