New Ganga Bridge to Connect Digha and Sonepur, Boosting Bihars Development

The Union Cabinet of India has approved the construction of a new 4.56-km long, 6-lane bridge over the river Ganga, connecting Digha and Sonepur in Bihar. The project is estimated to cost Rs 3,064.45 crore, with Rs 2,233.81 crore allocated for civil construction.

Representative image

Enhanced Traffic Flow and Economic Development

The new bridge will significantly improve traffic flow and connectivity in the region, particularly in north Bihar. It will replace the existing rail-cum-road bridge, which can only accommodate light vehicles and restricts the transportation of goods and commodities. The new bridge will remove this constraint and unlock the economic potential of the region by facilitating the movement of goods and commodities.

State-of-the-Art Construction Techniques

The bridge will be constructed using the latest technology, including 5D-building information modelling (BIM), bridge health monitoring system (BHMS), and monthly drone mapping to ensure the highest quality of construction and operations. The project is targeted to be completed within 42 months from the appointed date.

Improved Connectivity and Economic Benefits

The new bridge will provide direct connectivity from Patna to the Golden quadrilateral corridor via NH-139 at Aurangabad and Sonepur NH-31, Chhapra, Motihari East-West corridor old NH-27, Bettiah NH-727 in the northern side of Bihar. It will also be a part of the Buddha circuit, promoting religious tourism in the region.

Economic Viability

The economic analysis of the project has shown a positive economic internal rate of return (EIRR) of 17.6% in the base case and 13.1% in the worst-case scenario. This indicates that the project is economically viable and will generate significant benefits in terms of time and distance savings.

The construction of the new Digha-Sonepur bridge is a significant infrastructure project that will enhance connectivity, boost economic growth, and benefit millions of people across Bihar. The project reflects the government's commitment to improving infrastructure and unlocking the economic potential of the region.