What’s inside:
Plans to strengthen road connectivity in Bihar with the construction of 5 expressways are gaining momentum. Private partnerships will be involved in building these expressways, following a model similar to Uttar Pradesh.
In Bihar, the cabinet recently decided to implement the ‘Seven Resolves-3’. This includes detailed discussions on the construction of expressways in the state. The government aims to complete construction work by 2030 and has conducted high-level reviews through the Road Construction Department.
The country currently has a total of 9 expressways, including the Patna-Purnia Expressway in Bihar. National expressways receive funding from the central government, while state expressways, like those in Bihar, are funded at the state level. Uttar Pradesh, for example, has 14 state highways, some of which are operational, and others are under construction.
The ‘UP Model’ involves special arrangements for budget allocation by the government for expressway construction. A dedicated authority, the UP Expressway Authority, is established to facilitate easy loans from financial institutions based on government guarantees. Toll collection on state expressways, similar to NH fees, ensures smooth funding without burdening the state financially.
The construction of expressways in Bihar, including the Gorakhpur-Siliguri, Buxar-Bhagalpur, Patna-Purnia, Varanasi-Kolkata, and Raxaul-Haldia routes, is expected to enhance road connectivity, create employment opportunities, and streamline transportation for residents. This development will also boost inter-district connectivity and support industrial growth in the region.
Summary:
- Plans for 5 expressways in Bihar are progressing with private partnerships.
- Bihar aims to complete construction work by 2030 for better road connectivity.
- National expressways receive central funding, while state ones are funded locally.
- The ‘UP Model’ involves government guarantees for easy loan access for expressway construction.
- Expressway construction in Bihar will bring benefits like improved connectivity and economic growth.