Premium

How Aunta-Simaria bridge in Bihar will be a gamechanger for connectivity and economy

Aunta-Simaria Bridge Construction: The Aunta–Simaria bridge has been constructed parallel to an old 2-lane rail-cum-road bridge "Rajendra Setu." Built around seven decades ago, the Rajendra Setu has long been a lifeline for the region.

Aunta-Simaria bridge was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 22. (Image: NHAI)

Road Connectivity Projects in India, Aunta-Simaria Bridge Inauguration: The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has undertaken multiple infrastructure projects to improve connectivity across the country. These initiatives will not only enhance intercity travel efficiency but will also boost the economic growth in the region. One such project is the Aunta-Simaria bridge in Bihar, which was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (August 22).

Aunta-Simaria Bridge in Bihar: Travel Time, Cost

The 8.15-km-long Aunta-Simaria bridge on NH-31 will provide direct connectivity between Mokama in Patna and Begusarai. This includes the 1.86-km-long 6-lane bridge on river Ganga constructed at a cost of over Rs 1,870 crore

Also Read | How Delhi-Jaipur Expressway will be a gamechanger for connectivity and economy

This connectivity will slash up to 100 km from their journeys between North Bihar (Begusarai, Supaul, Madhubani, Purnea, Araria, etc) and South Bihar (Sheikhpura, Nawada, Lakhisarai, etc). It also helps in reducing traffic jams in the region.

Aunta-Simaria bridge (Image: NHAI)

Aunta-Simaria Bridge Opening: Boost to Economy

The Aunta-Simaria bridge will also improve economic growth in the adjoining areas, especially in North Bihar, as they are dependant on South Bihar and Jharkhand for getting necessary raw material. Due to reduction in travel time, this will directly help in saving time, fuel, and vehicle operation costs.

Aunta-Simaria bridge (Image: NHAI)

Also Read | Bihar to get four more Amrit Bharat Express trains soon – Check routes

Aunta-Simaria Bridge to Improve Travel and Tourism Industry

The Aunta-Simaria bridge will also improve travel and tourism industry as well. The new bridge, also provides better connectivity to Simaria Dham, one of the famous pilgrimage places in the state and the birthplace of poet Ramdhari Singh Dinkar.

Also Read | Gaya to Delhi Amrit Bharat Express train: Check travel time, ticket price, time table, stoppages

Aunta-Simaria bridge (Image: NHAI)

Aunta-Simaria Bridge Project

The Aunta–Simaria bridge has been constructed parallel to an old two-lane rail-cum-road bridge “Rajendra Setu.” Built around seven decades ago, the Rajendra Setu has long been a lifeline for the region. However, age and ongoing extensive repair works have rendered it inadequate for heavy vehicles, forcing passengers onto lengthy detours.

Anish Mondal

Anish Mondal is a journalist with over nine years of experience covering the railways and roadways. Currently a member of the Indianexpress.com editorial team, Anish specializes in high-impact sectors. Professional Journey Anish began his career at the public broadcaster Rajya Sabha Television (now Sansad TV), where he developed a foundational understanding of legislative processes and national governance. In 2018, he transitioned to digital financial journalism at FinancialExpress.com, spending nearly six years refining his expertise in market trends and corporate reporting. Before joining The Indian Express in 2025, he served as a key contributor at ETNowNews.com. Education & Expertise Anish’s reporting is backed by a rigorous academic background in communication and the humanities: Master of Journalism and Mass Communication (MJMC) – Apeejay Stya University Post Graduate Diploma in Journalism and Production (PGTVRJP) – Apeejay Institute of Mass Communication Bachelor of Arts (English Honours) – University of Calcutta Areas of Coverage Connectivity: Detailed reporting on the expansion of Indian Railways and National Highway networks. ... Read More

Stay updated with the latest - Click here to follow us on Instagram