Has the Bihar government approved over 30,000 km of rural roads?
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Synopsis
In a groundbreaking initiative, the Bihar government has approved the construction of over 30,000 km of rural roads, aiming to revolutionize connectivity and infrastructure in the state. This move not only saves costs but also empowers local contractors, ensuring a sustainable and quality-driven approach to rural development.
Key Takeaways
- Over 30,000 km of rural roads approved for Bihar.
- Cost savings of approximately Rs 800 crore.
- Focus on empowering local contractors through smaller bidding packages.
- Seven-year maintenance policy for road durability.
- Reinstatement of the Chief Minister Rural Bridge Scheme.
Patna, July 25 (NationPress) The government led by Nitish Kumar has made a significant move to enhance rural connectivity in Bihar, approving 14,036 rural roads (totaling 24,480 km) for the fiscal year 2024-25, along with 4,079 roads (covering 6,484 km) for the ongoing fiscal year 2025-26, as stated by Rural Works Minister Ashok Choudhary on Friday.
The minister highlighted that a new, effective, and transparent system has been established, which not only improved the quality of the roads but also saved approximately Rs 800 crore for the state's finances.
Choudhary clarified that no international tenders were solicited. Rather, a system of national bidding with smaller packages was implemented to guarantee that local contractors, even at the block and subdivision levels, have ample opportunities.
“There have been misconceptions about large packages being awarded, but we have ensured that small contractors gain from this initiative,” the minister stated.
Furthermore, Choudhary mentioned that 18,000 roads are currently covered under a maintenance policy aimed at ensuring quality and longevity, alongside 464 maintenance packages distributed over the past two months, guaranteeing a regular maintenance schedule for seven years provided by contractors.
After a gap of nine years, the Chief Minister Rural Bridge Scheme has been reinstated, facilitating the swift construction of both small and large bridges and culverts in rural regions to enhance connectivity and road standards.
“We have reintroduced a program to expedite the building of small and large bridges and culverts in rural areas, which will significantly improve transportation and road conditions. A total of 6,538 km of roads have been approved to connect 5,003 hamlets, with an additional 1,200 km still awaiting approval,” he added.
Ashok Choudhary cautioned contractors against utilizing fraudulent documents or engaging with blacklisted companies to secure tenders.
He assured that legal action would be taken against those involved in malpractice. To date, only a few contractors from Jharkhand and Uttar Pradesh have stepped forward, indicating that local contractors are receiving opportunities.
The department is committed to initiating work on all approved roads prior to the elections, ensuring continuous development.
Minister Choudhary stressed that under the leadership of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Bihar is setting a benchmark in rural connectivity, emphasizing the importance of construction quality and long-term maintenance.
“This initiative represents more than just road construction; it is the groundwork for building a revitalized Bihar,” he concluded.
Point of View
000 km of rural roads in Bihar is a commendable step towards enhancing infrastructure, especially for rural communities. This initiative reflects a strategic approach towards local empowerment and transparency in the bidding process. It is crucial for the government to ensure the quality and maintenance of these roads to provide long-term benefits to the state's residents.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total length of rural roads approved by the Bihar government?
The Bihar government has approved over 30,000 km of rural roads.
How much money has been saved due to the new road construction policies?
The new system has saved approximately Rs 800 crore for the state exchequer.
What measures are in place to ensure local contractors benefit from the project?
The government has adopted a national bidding system with smaller packages, allowing local contractors at various levels to participate.
How long will the maintenance of the roads be ensured?
A seven-year maintenance plan has been established for the approved roads.
What is the Chief Minister Rural Bridge Scheme?
It is a scheme reinitiated to facilitate the rapid construction of bridges and culverts in rural areas to enhance connectivity.
