The Union Cabinet has approved the construction of the Patna-Arrah-Sasaram corridor (NH-119A), a 120.10 km-long four-lane highway project in Bihar. The corridor will be developed under the Hybrid Annuity Mode (HAM) and is expected to ease congestion, improve connectivity, and boost economic development in the state.
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw’s Statement
Speaking about the project, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said:
“The project will connect Patna-Arrah-Sasaram and link five national highways and four state highways, significantly reducing traffic congestion in Bihar.”
The corridor will be a mix of greenfield (newly built) and brownfield (upgraded existing roads) infrastructure.
What is the Hybrid Annuity Mode (HAM)?
Hybrid Annuity Mode (HAM) is a public-private partnership (PPP) model used for highway construction.
Under HAM, the government funds 40% of the project cost, while the private developer invests 60% and maintains the road for a fixed period.
This model helps reduce financial risk for private players while ensuring quality infrastructure.
How Will This Corridor Benefit Bihar?
Better Connectivity: The highway will serve as a major link between Patna, Arrah, and Sasaram, facilitating faster movement of goods and passengers.
Reduced Travel Time: Traffic congestion will significantly decrease, leading to shorter travel durations.
Economic Growth: Improved roads will boost trade, commerce, and employment opportunities in Bihar.
Enhanced Safety: A modern four-lane corridor with advanced infrastructure will reduce road accidents.
A Key Step Towards Bihar’s Development
The Patna-Arrah-Sasaram corridor is expected to transform Bihar’s road infrastructure, making travel smoother and fostering economic growth. The project aligns with the government’s vision to enhance connectivity across India through modern highways.