The fourth and final phase of Patna’s J P Ganga Path, popularly called Marine Drive, is nearing completion, with construction projected to wrap up by February 2025 and operations beginning in March. This phase, spanning 5 km from Kangan Ghat to Deedarganj, marks the culmination of the ambitious 20.5 km-long project.
Developed by the Bihar State Road Development Corporation Limited (BSRDCL), the four-lane expressway runs along the Ganga River, linking Digha in the west to Deedarganj in the east. The Ganga Path includes a 6.5 km at-grade section and a 14 km elevated stretch.
Phases Progress: Phase 1 (Digha to PMCH): Operational since June 2022. Phase 2 (PMCH to Gaighat): Opened in August 2023. Phase 3 (Digha to Kangan Ghat): Began operations in July 2024. Officials revealed that only 600 meters of construction remain on the 5 km stretch, primarily involving 12 spans of the elevated section. Once complete, commuters can travel the entire route in just 20-25 minutes, transforming the city's east-west connectivity.
Additional Features: The Ganga Path will feature foot overbridges at three points between Digha and Gandhi Maidan for pedestrian safety, as well as a food plaza and other amenities. Key stops along the route include LCT Ghat, PMCH, Krishna Ghat, and Patna Ghat.
Delays were reported near Patna Ghat, where land acquisition issues with the Railways had slowed progress. Connectivity between Malsalami and Patna Sahib Railway Station is still pending due to unacquired land.
With its completion, the Ganga Path is expected to significantly reduce traffic congestion and improve accessibility across Patna.