Muzaffarpur: A 17-kilometre-long Eastern Bypass will be constructed in Muzaffarpur at an estimated cost of ₹1,700 crore, aimed at easing traffic congestion and improving regional connectivity across North Bihar. The ambitious project, to be implemented by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), is expected to significantly reduce vehicular pressure within the city.

After landing at the Abdul Nagar helipad, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, accompanied by senior officials, proceeded directly to Bakhri crossing, the proposed starting point of the Eastern Bypass. The bypass will originate from Bakhri and connect to the Patna–Hajipur Road near Madhaul. During the visit, the department secretary briefed the Chief Minister on the project alignment and progress, informing him that the Detailed Project Report (DPR) is currently under preparation.

The Chief Minister also reviewed the road construction work being carried out by the Road Construction Department (RCD) from Chandni Chowk to Bakhri and sought updates from senior officials on the implementation status of various schemes announced during the Pragati Yatra.

Direct Connectivity Without Entering the City

Once completed, the Eastern Bypass will allow vehicles traveling from Patna and Hajipur to Darbhanga, Samastipur, Sitamarhi, and Motihari to bypass Muzaffarpur city altogether. At present, such vehicles are forced to pass through heavily congested areas such as Kalambagh Chowk, Akharaghat, and Zero Mile, often resulting in traffic jams lasting several hours.

The new bypass will enable heavy vehicles to reach their destinations without entering the city, significantly improving traffic flow and reducing congestion in urban areas.

Project Alignment and Phasing

To ensure smooth execution, the bypass project has been divided into two sections:

Section One: Madhaul to Dighra (5 km)

Section Two: Dighra via Mushhari to Harpur Bakhri (12 km)

The Eastern Bypass, also referred to as the Eastern Ring Road, will be a four-lane corridor and is designed to serve as a major traffic diversion route around the city.

Six-Laning of Bakhri–Chandni Chowk Road

In addition to the bypass, the Bakhri–Chandni Chowk road, one of the busiest and most congested stretches in Muzaffarpur, is being upgraded into a six-lane road. The project includes road widening, strengthening, and construction of drainage systems. The 7.65-kilometre-long stretch is being widened at an estimated cost of ₹89.77 crore, with a completion target of 18 months.

Lifeline for North Bihar

Officials said the Eastern Bypass will not only decongest Muzaffarpur city but also act as a lifeline for inter-district connectivity across North Bihar. Once completed, the project is expected to boost economic activity, improve logistics movement, and provide long-term relief from traffic congestion in the region. DeshBharat