The 99th meeting of the Network Planning Group (NPG), held under the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan, has given a push to infrastructure development in Bihar with the evaluation of a key highway project between Khagaria and Purnia. The meeting, chaired by Shri Pankaj Kumar, Joint Secretary, Logistics, DPIIT, focused on enhancing multimodal connectivity and logistics efficiency across the country.
Out of the four projects evaluated, including three railway projects in Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, and Haryana, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) presented a crucial proposal for Bihar — the upgradation of the Khagaria–Purnia stretch into a four-lane divided carriageway.
The project will cover sections of NH-31 (Km 270.0–384.200) and NH-231 (Km 384.200–410.0), transforming the existing two-lane road into a modern four-lane highway. Once completed, the road will act as a lifeline for Khagaria, Katihar, Bhagalpur, and Purnia, strengthening links between the Seemanchal region and the state capital Patna.
Key features of the project include 5 major bridges, 6 minor bridges, 4 railway crossings/ROBs, 2 toll plazas, and 4 truck lay bays. The highway will also provide a direct link to the Patna–Purnia Expressway (via NH-27), enhance connectivity to regional railway stations, and improve access to Purnia Airport.
The NPG noted that the project aligns with PM GatiShakti’s vision of integrated multimodal infrastructure and last-mile connectivity. It is expected to emerge as a key driver of socio-economic development in the region, while also strengthening Bihar’s role in regional and national logistics networks.
