The New 6-Lane Ganga Bridge has got the Cabinet nod. The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved the construction of a new 4556-meter-long, 6-lane high-level cable-stayed bridge across the River Ganga in Bihar.
This development, set to be executed on Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) mode, aims to bridge geographical barriers and bolster economic progress in the state.
The total estimated cost for this ambitious New Ganga Bridge project stands at Rs. 3,064.45 crore, with Rs. 2,233.81 crore allocated for the civil construction. This infrastructure endeavor is poised to transform the region’s connectivity landscape and accelerate overall development, particularly in North Bihar.
Presently, the connectivity between Digha and Sonepur, located on either side of the River Ganga, is limited to a rail-cum-road bridge catering only to light vehicles. This new initiative will overcome this limitation, facilitating the transport of goods and commodities. The improved accessibility is expected to unlock the economic potential of the area, paving the way for seamless transportation of goods, which was previously impeded by the existing infrastructure.
Bihar’s Infra Leap: PM Modi Clears 6-Lane New Ganga Bridge Project
Moreover, this Ganges bridge will establish a direct link from Patna to the Golden Quadrilateral corridor via NH-139 at Aurangabad and Sonepur (NH-31), connecting crucial points like Chhapra, Motihari, and Bettiah in Northern Bihar.
Additionally, the new Ganga bridge forms an integral part of the Buddha circuit, enhancing connectivity to significant cultural and religious sites such as the Buddha Stupa at Vaishali, the Keshariya temple, and the proposed Viraat Ramayan Mandir in Kesariya.
The strategic location of this project in Patna holds the promise of improved connectivity, not only within the state but also with neighboring regions.
The economic analysis indicates a significant Expected Internal Rate of Return (EIRR) ranging from 13.1% to 17.6%, underscoring the potential benefits in terms of reduced travel time and distance.
To ensure the highest standards of construction and operations, the project will leverage cutting-edge technology, including 5D-Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Bridge Health Monitoring Systems (BHMS). Monthly drone mapping will also be employed to uphold construction quality and efficacy.
Anticipated to be completed within 42 months from the commencement date, this venture holds the promise of generating employment opportunities for both skilled and unskilled workers during the construction and maintenance phases. The socio-economic growth of the region is anticipated to receive a substantial impetus through improved connectivity, fostering development and progress.
This infrastructure marvel will directly link two districts, Patna and Saran, spanning the River Ganga, further solidifying Bihar’s position on the map of enhanced connectivity and economic advancement.
The NH-139(W), recognized by the government in a Gazette Notification on July 8, 2021, is set to transform transportation dynamics, shaping a brighter future for Bihar.
