Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary, on the occasion of the inauguration of the Shravani Mela, unveiled a comprehensive development roadmap for Sultanganj and surrounding areas, focusing on improving facilities for pilgrims and boosting tourism in the region.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said the Shravani Mela is not merely a religious event but a festival deeply connected with the culture and emotions of the people of Bhagalpur, Munger and Banka. He highlighted the dedication of residents who welcome and serve devotees arriving from across India and abroad to collect holy Ganga water from Ajgaivinath Dham and offer it at Baba Baidyanath Temple in Deoghar.
During his address, Choudhary urged people to start using the name “Ajgaivinath Dham” for Sultanganj, saying that public acceptance would eventually encourage the administration to adopt the name officially.
“There is no need to wait for anyone to change the name. People should start writing Ajgaivinath Dham right now. This is the city of Baba Ajgaivinath. When people adopt this name, the administration will also start writing it with it,” he said.
The Chief Minister also offered prayers at the feet of Baba Ajgaivinath and sought blessings for the prosperity and development of Bihar.
Focus On Pilgrim Facilities And Temple Development
Choudhary said multiple departments, including Health, Tourism, Road Construction, Water Resources and PHED, are working to improve arrangements for pilgrims during the Shravani Mela.
He also reviewed preparations along the Tarapur-Sultanganj route and said that while government agencies are making arrangements, the contribution of local people in serving Kanwariyas remains unmatched.
Ajgaivinath Dham To Get Haridwar-Like Development
The Chief Minister announced plans to develop the ghats of the Uttarvahini Ganga on the lines of Haridwar. The government aims to improve riverfront facilities, water flow management and infrastructure around the temple area.
He also mentioned the proposed 83-km Ganga Path project from Munger to Bhagalpur, along with tourism development initiatives along the river.
Regarding the Agwani-Sultanganj bridge, Choudhary said the construction agency has assured that the bridge will become operational by December 31, 2027, after replacing the entire superstructure.
Boost To Religious And Eco-Tourism
The Chief Minister said efforts will be made to promote dolphin tourism in the Ganga, allowing visitors from across the country and the world to experience river dolphin sightings.
He also announced plans for a ropeway connecting Ajgaivinath Temple and Agwani Ghat, which could further enhance tourism potential in the region.
Airport, Roads And Industrial Corridor Plans
Choudhary said the proposed Ajgaivinath Airport would be developed with international-standard facilities and would feature two runways.
He added that construction of a four-lane road connecting Ajgaivinath Dham and Deoghar would begin after the monsoon season. A separate road alignment via Tarapur-Asarganj to Deoghar is also being planned.
The Chief Minister said the long-term goal is to transform the region into an industrial corridor.
New Projects For Bhagalpur Region
Highlighting the agricultural potential of the region, Choudhary said areas around the Ganga are known for crops such as maize, banana and paddy, while Bhagalpur’s Katarni rice continues to hold a special identity.
He announced plans for new townships, including “Vikramshila” near Nathnagar and Sultanganj-Ajgaivinath and “Ang” between Bariyarpur and Munger.
He also said work has started to establish degree colleges in 211 blocks where such facilities were previously unavailable.
Jobs And Education Initiatives
The Chief Minister said the government is working to create employment opportunities for one crore people in Bihar over the next five years.
He also announced the development of model schools at 551 locations to help students prepare for competitive exams like NEET and JEE without leaving their villages. These schools will provide live classes and online learning facilities.
Political Jibe At Local MLA
Taking a light-hearted dig at the local MLA, Choudhary said the leader often claims he has no demands but presents a long list of requests whenever he gets a chance to speak on stage.
The event concluded with chants of “Har Har Mahadev,” “Baba Ajgaivinath Ki Jai” and “Bol Bam” as the Chief Minister greeted devotees attending the Shravani Mela.