Cabinet Approves Patna-Arrah-Sasaram Corridor & Kosi-Mechi Intra-State Link Project

To boost connectivity and agricultural irrigation in Bihar, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved two key infrastructure projects—the Patna-Arrah-Sasaram Corridor and the Kosi-Mechi Intra-State Link Project. These projects aim to support regional development, generate employment, and align with the government’s vision of “Atmanirbhar Bharat.”

Key Highlights

Patna-Arrah-Sasaram Corridor (NH-119A)

• Type: 4-lane access-controlled corridor (Hybrid Annuity Mode – HAM).
• Length: 120.10 km.
• Cost: ₹3,712.40 crore.

Purpose

• Decongest existing state highways.
• Reduce travel time from 3–4 hours.

Connectivity Benefits

• Links Patna to Sasaram and Arrah.
• Connects with major transport nodes including the upcoming Bihita Airport and railway stations.
• Enhances linkage between cities like Patna, Varanasi, Ranchi, and Lucknow.
• Employment Generation: Around 48 lakh man-days.
• Socio-economic Impact: Boosts regional growth and logistics efficiency.

Kosi-Mechi Intra-State Link Project

• Inclusion: Under PMKSY-AIBP (Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana – Accelerated Irrigation Benefits Programme).
• Estimated Cost: ₹6,282.32 crore.
• Central Assistance: ₹3,652.56 crore.
• Completion Target: March 2029.

Objective

• Divert surplus water from the Kosi River to irrigate the Mahananda basin.
• Remodel the Eastern Kosi Main Canal (EKMC).

Irrigation Impact

• Additional irrigation potential for 2.10 lakh hectares.
• Covers Araria, Purnea, Kishanganj, and Katihar districts.
• Benefits Kharif crop irrigation.
• Agricultural Growth: Ensures water access for current and new farmlands.