Patna, Bihar: The Bihar government has proposed a major infrastructure upgrade under the Bharatmala programme, planning a 150-km-long ring road around the state capital Patna. The project, estimated to cost around ₹15,000 crore, aims to transform Patna into a modern and well-connected urban hub similar to major cities like Delhi and Mumbai.
The proposal is part of the state’s broader strategy to ease traffic congestion and improve regional connectivity in and around the capital.
Ring Road to Cover 1,350 Sq Km Area Around Patna
According to the plan, the proposed corridor will form a circular loop around Patna, covering an area of approximately 1,350 square kilometres. The route will begin near Kanhouli in Bihta and pass through Nawada, Ramnagar, Kachchi Dargah, Bidupur, Hajipur, Sonpur, Dighwara, and Sherpur before reconnecting to Patna.
Officials said the project will significantly improve connectivity between Patna and surrounding districts including Vaishali, Saran, and Samastipur.
Integration of National and State Highways
The project will integrate 12 national highways and five state highways, creating a seamless transport network around the capital region. It also includes the construction of two major bridges over the Ganga River, further strengthening east-west connectivity.
The ring road is being designed as a six-lane access-controlled express corridor, allowing smooth traffic movement at speeds of up to 80 km/h.
Traffic Relief and Safety Improvement Expected
Authorities said the controlled-access design will ensure regulated entry and exit points, reducing the risk of accidents caused by sudden traffic merging. The project is expected to significantly reduce congestion in Patna, which has long struggled with increasing traffic pressure.
Officials believe the ring road will bring long-term relief to commuters and improve urban mobility across the region.
Bihar Minister Highlights Development and Connectivity Push
Bihar minister Dilip Kumar Jaiswal confirmed that preliminary preparations for the project have begun. He said the ring road will not only ease traffic in Patna but also improve connectivity in surrounding districts.
He added that the project is being developed on the lines of Delhi’s urban infrastructure model, aiming to modernize Bihar’s transport system and support regional development.
Political Remarks on Development, UCC, and Opposition
Speaking to the media, the minister also commented on broader political issues including the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), opposition parties, and governance matters.
He stated that UCC would ensure equal rights for all citizens and accused some political groups of unnecessarily politicizing the issue.
Jaiswal also criticized opposition parties, including the Congress, alleging that they historically limited women’s participation in politics and society. He stressed the need to increase opportunities for women’s empowerment.
He further made remarks targeting West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, accusing her of making misleading statements, and described Malda as a sensitive area in the context of cross-border security concerns.
The proposed Patna Ring Road under the Bharatmala programme is expected to be a landmark infrastructure project for Bihar, aimed at reducing congestion, improving connectivity, and supporting long-term urban expansion around the capital region.
