Commuters travelling between Bihar and Jharkhand are set to see a major improvement in road connectivity. The National Highway department has confirmed through an RTI response that a new 72 km bypass will be constructed from Sheikhpura to Khaira. This project is part of the National Highway 333A (NH 333A) development, which originates from Barbigha. The initiative aims to reduce travel time significantly and solve the chronic traffic jams often seen in the district headquarters and market areas.
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What are the key features of this new highway project?
According to the latest reports, the total length of this NH project stretches 190 km up to the Bihar-Jharkhand border. The specific 72 km section from Sheikhpura to Khaira has now entered an accelerated phase. The Detailed Project Report (DPR) has been approved by the Chief Engineer’s office.
The government has estimated a budget of ₹878.25 crore for this work. The existing road, which is currently about 5 meters wide, will be upgraded to a 7-meter wide two-lane highway complete with paved shoulders. This widening is essential to handle the increasing load of heavy vehicles and transit buses that currently clog the narrow city roads.
Which towns will get new bypasses and when will work start?
To ensure smooth traffic flow, the plan includes constructing bypasses in several congested towns. A major realignment is scheduled for Sikandra, meaning the highway will take a new route around the town rather than passing through it. Apart from Sheikhpura and Jamui, new bypasses are also planned for Panjwara, Lakhpura, Katoria, and Banka.
Officials have stated that tenders for consultancy and bridge foundations are already active. Actual construction on these modernized sections is expected to begin by late 2026, with a completion target set for 2028. Land compensation of ₹72 crore has already been allocated for Sheikhpura district to speed up the process.
