Patna: Bihar’s ambitious Aguwani Ghat Bridge project is moving towards completion and is expected to significantly improve connectivity between North and South Bihar. The 3.160-km-long bridge over the Ganga, along with its approach roads, is targeted for completion during the financial year 2026–27.
Road Construction Department Secretary Pankaj Kumar Pal said construction work on different components of the project has reached between 70% and 98%. The remaining work is expected to be completed soon.
Once operational, the bridge will provide a direct and convenient connection between Khagaria and Sultanganj in Bhagalpur, reducing the need for people to take longer routes through existing bridges.
3.160-Km Bridge Over the Ganga
The Aguwani Ghat Bridge is being constructed as an RCC high-level bridge across the Ganga. It will have a total length of 3.160 kilometres and a width of 8.5 metres, accommodating two lanes for vehicular movement.
The project has been taken up at a total cost of ₹1,710.77 crore. The bridge also includes pedestrian facilities, with 1.5-metre-wide footpaths on both sides, making it more accessible for people travelling on foot.
The bridge is not being developed as an isolated structure. Its approach roads are also a key part of the project and will connect it with the surrounding road network.
A 4-km approach road is being constructed on the Sultanganj side, while the Aguwani side will have a 16-km approach road.
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Faster Link Between North and South Bihar
The project is expected to strengthen road connectivity between several districts on both sides of the Ganga.
The improved connection will benefit people in Khagaria, Bhagalpur, Saharsa, Madhepura, Begusarai, Munger, Banka and Jamui, along with residents of areas such as Mangouna, Aguwani, Parbatta and Maheshkhunt.
The bridge will particularly improve connectivity between the Kosi and Ang regions, creating a more direct travel route for residents, businesses and other road users.
According to the Road Construction Department, the bridge will become one of the major and convenient connectivity links between North Bihar and South Bihar.
Relief From Long Detours
At present, people travelling from Khagaria towards Sultanganj or Bhagalpur often have to use longer routes through the Munger Bridge or Vikramshila Setu.
These routes can add considerable travel time, particularly when traffic congestion slows down movement. The new bridge will provide a much more direct connection across the Ganga.
For residents of Khagaria and surrounding districts, the project is therefore expected to reduce travel time and make regular movement between the two regions easier.
The improved road connection could also support the movement of goods and strengthen economic links between districts located on either side of the river.
Boat Dependence to End
One of the important local benefits of the Aguwani Ghat Bridge will be the reduction in dependence on boats for crossing the Ganga between Aguwani and Sultanganj.
At present, local residents and pilgrims travelling between the two sides have to depend on water transport in situations where road connectivity does not provide a direct alternative.
Once the bridge becomes operational, people will have a permanent road-based connection. This is expected to make travel more convenient and provide a safer and more reliable option for residents and pilgrims.
Project Progress and Target
The state government has set FY 2026–27 as the target for completing the bridge and its approach roads.
Secretary Pankaj Kumar Pal said the various components of the project are currently at different stages of completion, with progress ranging from 70% to 98%.
The focus is now on completing the remaining works so that the entire bridge-cum-approach road system can become operational within the targeted financial year.
The project is significant not only because of the bridge itself but also because of the wider connectivity network it will create. By linking major roads on both sides of the Ganga, the infrastructure is expected to improve access to markets, services, pilgrimage destinations and other important locations.
For Bihar, the Aguwani Ghat Bridge represents a major step towards strengthening inter-district connectivity. For people living across Khagaria, Bhagalpur and the wider Kosi and Ang regions, its completion could mean shorter journeys, easier movement and an end to the need for lengthy detours or boat crossings.
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