Bihar is set to witness a major transformation in road connectivity with the extension of the JP Ganga Path. The state government has officially approved the expansion plan that will stretch from Koilwar in Bhojpur to Sabour in Bhagalpur. With a massive budget of ₹16,465 crore, this project aims to turn the route into a “Super Highway,” significantly cutting down travel time for common commuters across multiple districts like Patna, Munger, and Bhojpur.
What is the new roadmap for the Ganga Path expansion?
Road Construction Minister Dr. Dilip Jaiswal announced the detailed plan in the Legislative Council on February 12, 2026. The total expansion covers 118 km, extending the existing Patna Marine Drive towards the west to Koilwar and towards the east to Bhagalpur. The western expansion covers 35.65 km connecting Sherpur to Koilwar, while the eastern leg stretches 40.80 km to Sabour. This corridor will not only link major towns like Munger and Sultanganj but also provide faster access to the Purvanchal Expressway for those traveling to Uttar Pradesh and Delhi.
How will this benefit the common man and commuters?
Once completed, the new highway is expected to reduce travel time between Bhojpur, Patna, Munger, and Bhagalpur by up to 50%. The road is designed for vehicles to run at speeds of 100–120 km per hour safely. This project follows the Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM), ensuring private investment works alongside government funding for timely completion. The physical work for the Sherpur-to-Koilwar section starts in April 2026, and the entire project targets a completion timeline of four years.
Safety measures and modern technology usage
For the first time in Bihar, road maintenance will be monitored using Artificial Intelligence (AI) and mobile applications from 2026 to 2033. The government has also signed an agreement with IIT Patna to conduct safety audits for bridges longer than 250 meters. Under the contract terms, the construction agency will remain responsible for maintenance for 15 years, ensuring the road stays in good condition for the public without frequent repair issues.
