NHAI Announces Revised June 2027 Deadline for Patna's Danapur-Bihta Elevated Road
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has officially confirmed that the ambitious 25-kilometer Danapur-Bihta elevated road in Patna is now slated for completion by June 2027. This announcement marks a significant revision from the earlier projected deadline of September 2026, as authorities work to navigate the complexities of what is being hailed as the longest elevated highway project in the country.
Project Progress and Key Details
During a press briefing in Patna, NHAI Project Director Arvind Kumar provided an update on the current status of the infrastructure endeavor. "We have successfully completed 45 per cent of the work, and our team is diligently striving to finish the remaining 55 per cent by the new target of June 2027," Kumar stated. The project, with an estimated cost of Rs 1,969 crore, is being executed by the infrastructure firm Ceigall, underscoring a major public-private partnership in Bihar's development landscape.
Strategic Importance and Connectivity
Kumar emphasized that the elevated road is not an isolated initiative but a critical component of the broader Patna-Buxar project, which serves as a vital link to Bihar's western boundary. "While four-lane roads from Koelwar to Buxar are already operational, this specific stretch represents the most challenging missing link in the network," he explained. Once fully operational, the corridor is expected to dramatically enhance connectivity, providing seamless access to prestigious institutions such as IIT Bihta, NIT Bihta, and the upcoming Bihta airport, thereby boosting regional economic and educational prospects.
Engineering and Safety Measures
To manage the anticipated high-traffic volume, the project incorporates advanced design features. Near the Danapur railway station, four dedicated ramps have been strategically implemented to ensure smooth vehicular movement from Saguna Mor and other directions, minimizing congestion and improving traffic flow. Kumar assured that structural integrity remains a top priority, with rigorous oversight mechanisms in place. "We have engaged a four-member technical team from Rail India Technical and Economic Service (RITES), a government agency conducting external technical audits on a daily basis. Additionally, the contractor has appointed an internal audit firm to promptly address any technical issues that arise," he added, highlighting the commitment to safety and quality.
Implications for Bihar's Infrastructure
The Danapur-Bihta elevated road project symbolizes a significant leap forward in Bihar's infrastructure development, aiming to reduce travel time, alleviate traffic pressures, and foster regional growth. As NHAI and its partners work towards the June 2027 deadline, the project is poised to become a landmark achievement in India's highway network, setting a precedent for future elevated road initiatives across the nation.
