Patna–Gaya–Dobhi Section of NH-22 Inaugurated to Boost Connectivity and Economic Growth in Bihar by reducing travel time less than half

Nabinagar, 30 May 2025: The four-laning of the Patna–Gaya–Dobhi section of National Highway 22 (formerly NH-83), supported by Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), was officially inaugurated today by the Honourable Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi. This momentous event was also attended by the honourable Chief Minister of Bihar, Shri Nitish Kumar, State Minster for Road Construction Department, Secretary MoRT&H, Chief Secretary of Bihar, Chairman NHAI, and the Consul General of Japan in Kolkata, Shri ISHIKAWA Yoshihisa. This project represents a significant milestone toward enhancing Bihar’s infrastructure and connectivity, and this event marked the successful implementation of the Bihar National Highway Improvement Project—an initiative that aims to strengthen logistics, tourism, and inclusive economic growth in the state.

The primary objective of this project is to promote regional economic development including tourist traffic. Spanning approximately 127 km, the newly upgraded highway links Patna with Gaya and Dobhi and includes bypasses, service roads, flyovers, and key structures to address traffic congestion. The project is expected to deliver transformational impact by reducing travel time less than half from 3.38 to 1.56 hours between Patna and Dobhi, thereby improving the overall efficiency of passenger and freight movement and support in state’s economic growth.

Implemented by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), the project was funded by the Japanese ODA loan of 22,903 million yen under the Loan Agreement signed in 2013.

Commenting on the occasion, Mr. TAKEUCHI Takuro, Chief Representative, JICA India, said, “ This Patna–Gaya–Dobhi highway (National Highway 22) project is a testament to the deep partnership between India and Japan. It reflects our shared commitment to regional economic development by coping with the increased demand for road transport . Since National Highway 22 is the main arterial road in Bihar, this project is expected to boost local economies and create better access to opportunities across Bihar.”

Strategically located, the upgraded corridor connects Bihar’s major national highways and offers improved access to important sites in terms of tourism such as Bodh Gaya, where Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and other Buddhist sites are situated. It is also anticipated to stimulate investment, enhance logistics, and contribute to the state’s long-term development goals.