Traveling from Bagaha to Ara may soon become smoother and faster. Bihar has proposed a new greenfield national highway—named the Narayani-Ganga Corridor—to the central government. This project could transform connectivity in the state’s northwest and southwest corners.
A Big Step Toward Better Roads
The corridor will cover a stretch of 225 kilometers and will act as a high-speed link between Bagaha (NH-727A) and Patar in Bhojpur, near Ara. From there, it will connect to the existing Patna–Ara–Sasaram highway (NH-119A).
If approved, the highway will:
- Ease pressure on the overcrowded Ara–Chhapra Ganga bridge
- Offer a direct route to Sasaram, Varanasi, and Kolkata
- Cut travel time and improve traffic flow across districts
- Help integrate backward regions into mainstream development
What’s in the Proposal?
The Bihar Road Construction Department has submitted the plan to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways and requested a feasibility study. Once the study is done, the Detailed Project Report (DPR) will follow.
Key highlights of the proposal:
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Total length | 225 km |
| Land acquisition cost | ₹3,950 crore |
| Construction cost | ₹11,500 crore |
| Total project cost | ₹15,450 crore |
| New bridge on Gandak River | Included |
| Major benefit zones | Bhojpur, Saran, Siwan, Gopalganj, West Champaran |
How the Corridor Will Help
- Boosts connectivity between North and South Bihar
- Opens up access to Sasaram, Varanasi, and Eastern UP
- Encourages roadside development and infrastructure
- Creates thousands of jobs during and after construction
- Brings faster access to major highways for over six districts
The corridor will also reduce the load of heavy vehicles on existing bridges, which often see long traffic delays.
Not Just Roads — It’s Development
This project aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of smooth and safe road networks across India. Officials believe it will accelerate growth in backward areas, improve local trade, and bring better public services.
“It’s more than a road—it’s a link to opportunity,” said a senior official.
The state government is even preparing a formal letter to the Centre to fast-track approval and funding.
FAQs
Q1. What is the Narayani-Ganga Corridor?
A proposed 225 km greenfield national highway in Bihar from Bagaha to Ara, aimed at connecting North and South Bihar.
Q2. What is the estimated cost of the project?
The project will cost ₹15,450 crore, including land acquisition and construction.
Q3. Which districts will benefit from this highway?
Primarily Bhojpur, Saran, Siwan, Gopalganj, and West Champaran.
Q4. Will new bridges be built?
Yes, the plan includes a new bridge on the Gandak River near the proposed corridor.
Q5. What is the next step?
The central government will conduct a feasibility study, followed by DPR preparation.
