The year 2026 is set to become a landmark period for road infrastructure in Bihar. A large wave of highway, expressway, and bridge projects is nearing completion or set to begin. Officials from the road construction department said the focus remains on faster travel, better connectivity, and economic growth. The state will witness the opening of its first six-lane national highway and the launch of several new high-speed corridors.
Bihar’s First Six-Lane National Highway Nears Completion
The Varanasi–Aurangabad road project, Bihar’s first six-lane national highway, is in its final stage. The project is scheduled for completion in 2026. Once opened, it will significantly reduce travel time between Bihar and Delhi through Uttar Pradesh. Officials believe this highway will improve long-distance movement for both passengers and freight.
Another six-lane road, the Aurangabad–Chorda stretch, is also close to completion. This corridor is expected to strengthen connectivity with Jharkhand and West Bengal. Together, these projects mark a major shift in Bihar’s highway standards.
Access-Controlled Highway to Open After Delay
Bihar’s first access-controlled highway, connecting Amas and Darbhanga, is also expected to open in 2026. The project missed its earlier 2025 deadline due to procedural delays. Once operational, it will offer controlled entry and exit points. This design is expected to improve safety and allow faster travel across central and northern Bihar.
Officials confirmed that several other road projects are also scheduled for completion this year. These include the Chakia–Bairgania and Parsarma–Saharsa–Mahishi two-lane roads. These routes will improve regional connectivity and support rural movement.
Patna Region to See Major Connectivity Boost
The area in and around Patna is set for major road upgrades. The Sonpur–Bakarpur–Manikpur section of the Patna–Bettiah route is expected to open in 2026. This stretch will improve access from Patna AIIMS to Sonpur and Bakarpur. The route will connect through the JP Ganga Path, easing traffic pressure in the capital region.
Two other important projects, Kacchi Dargah–Bidupur and Bakhtiyarpur–Tajpur, are also nearing completion. These roads are expected to improve cross-river connectivity and reduce congestion on existing routes.
Multiple Four-Lane and Two-Lane Roads to Open
Several four-lane and two-lane road projects across Bihar are scheduled for completion in 2026. Among them is the Gaya–Biharsharif four-lane road, which will improve connectivity between major urban centers. Other completed stretches will link regions such as Baisi, Bahadurganj, Dighalbank, Bettiah, and Narkatiaganj.
Road projects connecting Katihar, Balrampur, Mansi, and Simri Bakhtiyarpur are also expected to open. These roads are aimed at improving movement in border and interior districts. Officials said these upgrades will help reduce travel time and improve road safety.
Expressway Projects to Enter Construction Phase
Looking ahead, Bihar is preparing to enter the expressway era. The central government has granted expressway status to the proposed Patna–Purnea road. Financial approval for the project is expected soon. Once approved, construction may begin in 2026. This project is expected to become Bihar’s first expressway.
In addition, construction may also start on several other expressway corridors. These include the Gorakhpur–Siliguri, Raxaul–Haldia, and Buxar–Bhagalpur routes. An access-controlled highway connecting Patna, Ara, and Sasaram is also planned. These projects aim to connect Bihar more efficiently with neighboring states.
New Bridges and Bypasses Planned Across the State
Along with highways, several major bridge and bypass projects are in the pipeline. Construction of a bridge over the Son river is expected to begin in 2026. Road realignment through the protected forest area of Rohtas along the Varanasi–Kolkata corridor is also planned.
Work is set to start on the Bhagalpur–Hansdiha four-lane road. Bypass projects in Arwal and Daudnagar on the Patna–Aurangabad route are also scheduled to begin. These bypasses will help divert heavy traffic away from town centers.
State-Funded Highway Projects Also on the Agenda
The state government has indicated it may independently fund certain state highway projects. Financial institutions may support these efforts. One of the most anticipated projects is the proposed marine drive along the Ganges between Bhagalpur and Munger.
Officials said this project will improve road connectivity along the river. It is also expected to support riverfront development and tourism. The project has been under discussion for several years and may finally move forward.
New Bridges and Road Widening Works to Start
Construction is also expected to begin on several smaller but important projects. These include a road overbridge in Samastipur and a two-lane bridge over the Burhi Gandak river. Widening work is planned on key routes such as Darbhanga–Jaynagar and Mokama–Munger.
The government has also announced plans to begin work on what it described as the country’s longest bridge over the Gandak river. Officials said preparatory work for this project may start later this year.
Infrastructure Push Aimed at Economic Growth
Officials said the combined road, bridge, and expressway projects are designed to transform Bihar’s transport network. Reduced travel time, smoother freight movement, and better regional access are key goals. The projects are also expected to support industrial growth and investment.
With multiple corridors nearing completion and several new projects set to begin, 2026 is shaping up as a crucial year for Bihar’s infrastructure development. The road network expansion is expected to play a major role in the state’s long-term economic progress.
