After years of delays and legal hurdles, the long-awaited Patna–Gaya–Dobhi Four-Lane Highway is finally nearing completion. Once operational, this 127 km stretch will reduce travel time between Patna and Gaya to just 90 minutes, enhancing connectivity with Jharkhand and boosting tourism to Bodh Gaya. The project, originally conceived over a decade ago, is now expected to be inaugurated soon.
Fast Facts: Patna to Dobhi Highway
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Length | 127 km |
| Travel Time (Post-Completion) | 90 minutes (Patna to Gaya) |
| Total Project Cost | ₹5000 crore (including land acquisition) |
| Highway Name | NH-22 |
| Number of ROBs | 5 (in Patna, Jehanabad, and Gaya) |
| Construction Phases | 3 phases; each around 39–44 km |
Approved with an initial cost of ₹1910.83 crore, the highway’s total investment eventually climbed to ₹5000 crore due to delays, legal challenges, and land acquisition issues.
Phased Construction Breakdown
The 127 km highway was built in three main phases:
- Phase 1: 39 km segment | ₹650 crore
- Phase 2: 44 km segment | ₹496 crore
- Phase 3: 44 km segment | ₹465 crore
Each phase included the construction of ROB (Rail Over Bridges) to eliminate level crossings, ensuring uninterrupted traffic flow.
Legal Hurdles and Delays
Though the project’s DPR (Detailed Project Report) was prepared in 2010–11, work stalled due to:
- Financial collapse of the original contractor
- Land acquisition delays
- Funding issues
- Legal interventions and missed deadlines
In 2020, Patna High Court intervened, assigning new deadlines in 2022, 2023, and 2024. Even then, progress lagged. Now, as of May 2025, the project is finally close to completion.
Route Map and Connectivity Boost
The highway begins in Saristabad (Patna) and passes through:
- Nathupur, Mahuli, Punpun, Masaurhi
- Jehanabad, Makhdumpur, Belaganj, Chakand
- Gaya Bypass and Bodh Gaya, ending at Dobhi
This route will not only boost commercial transportation, especially for truckers, but also make religious tourism to Bodh Gaya easier and faster.
Truck drivers report that the journey which once took over five hours now takes less than three, thanks to NH-22’s transformation.
Strategic Significance
- Enhances Bihar–Jharkhand road connectivity
- Supports Bodh Gaya tourism, which attracts global pilgrims
- Reduces pressure on Gaya Airport, which has limited international flights
- Boosts economic activity in Jehanabad, Gaya, and southern Patna
Did You Know?
The project remained incomplete for over 15 years, making it one of Bihar’s most delayed infrastructure ventures. It required three phases of court monitoring to stay on track.
Key Takeaways
- Patna to Gaya travel time will reduce to 90 minutes via the new highway
- Five ROBs constructed for seamless commuting
- Project faced multiple legal and operational delays
- Final cost ballooned to ₹5000 crore
- Highway set to boost tourism, logistics, and regional connectivity
FAQs
How long is the new Patna–Gaya–Dobhi highway?
The total length is 127 kilometers.
What is the expected travel time between Patna and Gaya?
The travel time will be reduced to just 90 minutes.
Why was the project delayed?
Due to contractor failure, land acquisition issues, and funding gaps, requiring court intervention.
How many ROBs have been built?
A total of 5 Rail Over Bridges have been constructed across three districts.
What is the highway’s impact on tourism?
It will significantly improve access to Bodh Gaya, one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage destinations globally.
