Patna: Bihar Diwas celebrations this year will place a strong spotlight on water-based mobility, with the Transport Department, Bihar preparing a special pavilion at Gandhi Maidan where the Water Metro and inland waterways infrastructure will emerge as the central attractions.
The three-day celebration, scheduled from March 22 to March 24, will see multiple state departments presenting their flagship schemes and achievements, but the Transport Department’s pavilion is expected to draw particular attention because of its focus on Bihar’s growing water transport ambitions.
Five-Foot Inland Water Transport Model to Draw Visitors
At the centre of the pavilion, the department has installed a five-foot-tall Inland Water Transport (IWT) model, designed to visually explain how waterways can supplement and, in many areas, reduce dependence on road-based transport.
Officials say the display has been designed to communicate how inland waterways can offer:
• eco-friendly transport
• affordable mobility
• reduced road congestion
• efficient cargo movement
The model is intended to help visitors understand how river transport can become a major mobility solution in Bihar, particularly given the state’s extensive river network.
Water Metro Installed at Entrance as Main Highlight
A two-foot-tall 3D Water Metro model has been placed at the main entrance of the pavilion, making it the first visual attraction for visitors entering the Transport Department enclosure.
The Water Metro concept is being showcased as a modern urban mobility solution that could complement Bihar’s transport planning in river-connected areas.
The display is also expected to generate public interest in how river-based commuter transport systems can be adapted for Bihar in the future.
Seven National Waterways of Bihar to Be Showcased
Inside the pavilion, visitors will receive a detailed presentation on Bihar’s seven National Waterways, which together form one of the state’s strongest natural transport assets.
The seven waterways being highlighted include:
• Ganga River
• Gandak River
• Son River
• Kosi River
• Ghaghara River
• Punpun River
• Karmanasa River
Officials will explain the strategic role of these waterways in cargo movement, passenger transport and regional connectivity.
Information on Community Jetties, Cargo Vessels and River Infrastructure
The pavilion will also provide detailed information on infrastructure being developed or planned under inland water transport initiatives.
Displays will include:
• community jetties
• cargo ships
• Ro-Ro vessels (cargo transport)
• Ro-Pax vessels (cargo plus passenger movement)
• passenger ferry services
• shore-based logistics infrastructure
Department officials stationed at the pavilion will interact directly with visitors to explain how these systems work and what benefits they can bring to Bihar’s transport ecosystem.
Focus on Eco-Friendly and Affordable Transport
The key policy message being promoted through the pavilion is that waterways can serve as a sustainable alternative to road transport.
According to officials, inland water transport offers:
• lower fuel cost
• reduced emissions
• better bulk transport efficiency
• long-term environmental benefits
The exhibition is expected to strengthen public awareness about Bihar’s river economy potential.
Road Safety Awareness Also Part of Pavilion Activities
Alongside the waterways display, the Transport Department will also conduct road safety awareness programmes throughout the event.
A series of public engagement activities has been planned to improve awareness regarding safe driving and accident prevention.
Free Eye Check-Up for Visitors
As part of the road safety initiative, free eye check-ups will be provided to visitors during all three days of Bihar Diwas.
Officials say the initiative is linked to promoting safe driving habits and encouraging regular vision checks among road users.
Helmets and Safety Accessories to Be Distributed
Visitors will also receive awareness material and safety items including:
• helmets
• road safety wristbands
• keychains
• educational material
These items are intended to reinforce safety messaging among citizens.
Special Programmes for Children and Youth
The department has designed several activities specifically for younger visitors to make road safety education interactive.
Planned events include:
• painting competition
• quiz contests
• puzzle games
• slogan writing
• singing competition
Officials expect strong participation from school students and families visiting the fair.
Bihar Diwas Pavilion Expected to Draw Strong Footfall
With water transport, safety awareness and interactive learning combined in one space, the Transport Department pavilion is likely to emerge as one of the most visited installations at Bihar Diwas this year.
