What is Loknayak Ganga Path?
Also known as the JP Ganga Path or Patna Marine Drive, this ambitious 20.5 km expressway runs along the southern bank of the Ganges, connecting Digha in west Patna to Didarganj in the east. Named in honour of Loknayak Jayaprakash Narayan, a revered freedom fighter, it was first opened to the public on June 24, 2022 (Phase I), with subsequent phases inaugurated through April 10, 2025
🚗 Key Features & Connectivity
Four-lane expressway with service lanes, thoughtfully built on a 13 m-high embankment to protect from floods
Seamless linkage to major landmarks: AIIMS, PMCH, Patna University, Gandhi Maidan, NIT, Krishna/Gaighat/Kangan/Patna Ghat
Integrated with major bridges: Mah‑Gandhi Setu, JP Setu, Kacchi Dargah–Bidupur six‑lane bridge, and connected to National Highways and Patna Ring Road
Multi-modal access: Down ramps (e.g., Gaighat), flyovers, underpasses — facilitating better vehicular flow & reduced congestion
🏙️ Urban Renewal & Beautification
Under the Samagra Udyan Yojana, a 7 km green zone is being developed alongside, featuring promenades, butterfly parks, playgrounds, cycling tracks, parking, and “Mahila Haat” for women entrepreneurs
Efforts include modern seating, no-vending zones, and restrooms between LCT Ghat and Kurji Ghat for walking and leisure
Future plans include cafés, event spaces, marathons, and festivals, turning the path into a vibrant public space
⏱️ Benefits for Patna
Drastically reduced travel time: Commute between Digha and Didarganj now takes 20–25 minutes, down from 1–2 hours via Ashok Rajpath
Emergency access: Critical for faster transit between AIIMS, PMCH, and North Bihar, enhancing healthcare responsiveness
Boost to tourism & economy: Scenic river views draw residents and tourists alike—contributing to real estate, retail, and cultural growth
Project Scale & Investment
| Phase | Stretch | Length (approx.) | Inauguration Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phase I | Digha – PMCH | 7.5 km | June 24, 2022 |
| Phase II | PMCH – Gaighat | 5 km | August 14, 2023 |
| Phase III | Gaighat – Kangan Ghat | 3 km | July 10, 2024 |
| Phase IV | Krishna Ghat link | – | October 3, 2024 |
| Phase V | Kangan Ghat – Didarganj | 5 km | April 10, 2025 |
Total investment: ~₹3,800–3,831 Cr
Funding: Jointly by Bihar State and HUDCO (₹2,000 Cr loan), supported by BSRDC
🌿 Environmental & Community Impact
Elevated design minimizes flood risk while allowing uninterrupted infrastructure.
Incorporates eco-friendly construction, afforestation, and green belts along the corridor
Aims to ensure public utility, green recreation, and cultural engagement for citizens and visitors.
The Loknayak Ganga Path marks a new era for Patna—blending smart mobility, aesthetic riverfront, and urban vibrancy. From slashing commute time to boosting tourism and branding Patna as a modern riverside capital, it’s more than a roadway—it’s the backbone of the city’s resurgence.