In a major step towards resolving Muzaffarpur’s long-standing traffic congestion, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has accelerated the construction process of a proposed eastern bypass road at an estimated cost of Rs 1,700 crore.
The survey for the project is currently underway and is expected to be completed within this month. The exercise includes a detailed assessment of daily vehicular movement, traffic load, and land acquisition requirements. Meanwhile, the Detailed Project Report (DPR) has reached its final stage. Once the formalities are completed, tenders will be floated, and construction work will begin.
The proposed 17-kilometre-long bypass will originate from Madhoul and connect to the Darbhanga National Highway near Bakri. Upon completion, vehicles travelling from the Hajipur-Patna side will be able to proceed directly towards Darbhanga without entering the city, significantly easing congestion in key areas such as Chandni Chowk and Bairia.
With the bypass in place, long-distance vehicles will no longer be required to pass through the city. Officials estimate that the project will reduce travel distance by nearly 20 kilometres, leading to substantial savings in time and fuel.
Beyond easing traffic, the project is expected to boost economic activity in several panchayats across Madhoul, Kafen, Dighra, and Mushahari blocks located along the route. The bypass is likely to facilitate the development of new businesses, dhabas, warehouses, and logistics hubs in the region.
The proposed route was inspected by the Chief Minister during the Pragati Yatra last year, following which the project received approval. With NHAI now initiating the construction process, groundwork for making Muzaffarpur ‘jam-free’ has officially begun.