Project approved to widen 82.578 km section of NH-22 in Bihar to four lanes: India-Nepal border connectivity to get a boost
Chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the CCEA has approved a ₹3,590.73 crore project to widen the 82.578 km Muzaffarpur–Sonbarsa section of NH-22 in Bihar to four lanes. The project will be developed under the Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM) and includes the construction of 7 major bridges, 3 railway overbridges, and two flyovers. A 340-meter-long bridge will be built over the Bagmati River, and the road is designed for a speed of 100 kmph. This project will strengthen the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan by enhancing connectivity to the India-Nepal border, industries, railway stations, agricultural logistics hubs, and the Bhitamore Land Port.
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved a project to widen the 82.578 km section of National Highway-22 (NH-22) from Muzaffarpur to Sonbarsa in Bihar to four lanes.
Cost and Implementation Model
The project will be developed using the Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM). The total capital cost of the project has been set at ₹3,590.73 crore. The HAM model involves participation from both the government and the private sector, helping to balance the financial risks associated with road infrastructure projects.
Key Infrastructure
The project entails the construction of 7 major bridges, 3 railway overbridges (ROBs), and two flyovers. Additionally, a bridge approximately 340 meters long will be constructed over the perennial Bagmati River. The road has been designed for a speed of 100 kmph, with an average operating speed of 80 kmph.
India-Nepal Border Connectivity
This highway will provide improved connectivity to the India-Nepal border region, linking Muzaffarpur, Sitamarhi, and Sonbarsa. It is expected to boost trade, freight transport, and regional economic activities in the border areas.
Linkage with PM Gati Shakti
This project is being developed under the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan. It will enhance connectivity to industries, railway stations, agricultural logistics hubs, and the Bhithamore Land Port. The project will also strengthen connectivity to five Gati Shakti economic nodes, four social nodes, and two logistics nodes.
Significance for the UPSC Exam
This project is significant in the context of national highway development, multimodal connectivity, Public-Private Partnership (PPP), the Hybrid Annuity Model, border infrastructure, and the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan. It can be cited as an example of infrastructure development and regional economic integration in the UPSC Mains examination.
