Matihani-Sambho bridge: Bihar project gets go-ahead: NHAI alters rules, govt plans bridge over Ganga

Source: The post is based on the article “Bihar project gets go-ahead: NHAI alters rules, govt plans bridge over Ganga” published in Indian Express on 19th October 2022.

What is the News?

The Government of India has cleared a crucial bridge project on the River Ganga in Begusarai.

About the Matihani-Sambho bridge

The bridge is being built on the River Ganga in Begusarai (Bihar).

It will link the riverine areas of Matihani and Sambho in Begusarai and would also connect NH-31 (Patna-Mokama) and NH-80 (Begusarai-Purnea).

The National Highway Authority of India has made a rare exception to clear the feasibility report of the bridge. As per the rule, within 50 km of a bridge, upstream or downstream, a new bridge cannot be considered. 

But in this case, the shortening of travel distance, potential benefits to the rural economy and upcoming Assembly polls seem to have worked in the project’s favour.

Benefits of the bridge: The bridge would shorten the travel route from North Bihar to South Bihar, Orissa, Jharkhand and Nepal by at least 70 km.

It would also hold greater importance in terms of the safety of 13 industrial units in Begusarai and Barauni by providing a base and easy access to NDRF teams in times of any industrial disaster.