Aunta-Simaria Ganga Bridge Project: Transforming Connectivity in Bihar with Asia’s Widest Six-Lane Extradosed Cable-Stayed Bridge
The Aunta-Simaria Ganga Bridge project in Bihar is a pioneering endeavor that promises to elevate regional connectivity while establishing a new landmark across the Ganga River. Spearheaded by the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) and built by Welspun Enterprises, this six-lane bridge on NH-31 is Asia’s second-widest extradosed cable-stayed bridge, spanning a total length of 8.15 kilometers. Connecting Aunta in Patna district to Simaria in Begusarai district, the bridge is set to significantly reduce travel times and facilitate trade and transit across northeastern India.
Project Overview
- Location: Aunta (Patna district) to Simaria (Begusarai district)
- Highway: NH-31 (Six-lane development project)
- Total Length: 8.15 km
- Bridge Type: Extradosed cable-stayed bridge
- Width: 34 meters (Three lanes per direction)
- Client: National Highway Authority of India (NHAI)
- Contractor: Welspun Enterprises
- Type: Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM)
- Completion Cost: ₹1,447.7 crore
- Expected Completion: March 2025
- Project Status: Under execution
Key Features and Highlights
1. Asia’s Widest Cable-Stayed Extradosed Bridge
- The Aunta-Simaria Ganga Bridge is recognized as Asia’s second-widest extradosed cable-stayed bridge, designed to support the entire load through its advanced cable structure. The bridge is a 34-meter-wide marvel, allowing three lanes in each direction. It is built to accommodate six vehicles side-by-side, ensuring smooth and congestion-free traffic flow.
2. Enhanced Multimodal Access with Sidewalks and Lighting
- In addition to its six-lane vehicle capacity, the bridge features 1.5-meter-wide sidewalks on both sides, dedicated for pedestrians, cyclists, and bikers. This pedestrian-friendly infrastructure is equipped with comprehensive lighting along its entire length, ensuring safety and visibility for commuters during nighttime.
3. Advanced Materials and Techniques for Superior Durability
- The bridge’s construction uses high-performance concrete developed with silica fume, enhancing the structure’s durability and ensuring a long lifespan despite the challenging conditions of a riverine environment. Such high-quality materials reflect a commitment to sustainable, lasting infrastructure.
4. Innovative Railway Underpass with Push Box Technology
- A first in Indian bridge construction, the Aunta-Simaria project incorporates Push Box Technology to create a Railway Under Bridge (RUB). This cutting-edge approach allows for smooth underpass construction, reducing disruption to existing rail lines and ensuring seamless integration with the bridge’s approach roads.
5. Spanning the Ganga with Engineering Excellence
- With segments spanning up to 230 meters, the bridge stands on 18 pillars—nine of which are directly within the Ganga river, supporting a 1.865-kilometer stretch of the bridge above the water. These segments demonstrate both engineering precision and structural strength, overcoming the challenge of spanning one of India’s largest rivers while maintaining stability and resilience.
Connecting Key Regions and Boosting Economic Growth
The Aunta-Simaria Bridge forms a strategic link between Bihar’s Patna and Begusarai districts and creates the shortest, most efficient route between Patna and northeastern India. This shorter route is expected to improve accessibility for trade, commerce, and daily commuters, providing a crucial boost to Bihar’s economy and reinforcing the state’s infrastructure network.
Project Components at a Glance
- Road Over Bridges (ROBs): Three ROBs facilitate seamless movement over existing rail lines, including the Mokama-Lakhisarai, Rajendra Pul-Dumra Tal, and a new rail line on the Ganga, minimizing traffic congestion and integrating road and rail connectivity.
- Traffic Flow Enhancements: The bridge includes a large roundabout near NTPC’s main gate to direct traffic between the six-lane bridge and Rajendra Pul road, optimizing travel efficiency.
Looking Ahead: A Symbol of Bihar’s Progress
Scheduled for trial operations in December 2024 and a full public opening by March 2025, the Aunta-Simaria Ganga Bridge is a landmark of Bihar’s transformation. Representing a convergence of state-of-the-art technology, resilient design, and a commitment to modernization, this bridge is more than a construction project—it is a testament to Bihar’s vision for the future and its resolve to improve the lives of its people.
To Refer :
Asia’s Widest Cable-Stayed Extradosed Bridge
