MoRTH proposes major highway projects to boost connectivity across Bihar, Odisha-Jharkhand, J&K and Ladakh.

Patna, February 4, 2026: The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has proposed a series of strategic highway infrastructure projects across Bihar, Odisha, Jharkhand, Jammu & Kashmir, and Ladakh, aimed at improving regional connectivity, decongesting logistics efficiency, and supporting economic and strategic development.

Six-Lane Greenfield Patna Ring Road National Highway-131G, Bihar:

MoRTH has proposed the construction of a 9.98-km six-lane Greenfield highway from Kanhauli to Sherpur under the Patna Ring Road project (NH-131G).

The corridor will connect NH-30 and NH-922, significantly strengthening regional connectivity and easing traffic congestion in Patna and its surrounding areas.

The project will enhance multimodal integration by improving access to nearby railway stations, the upcoming Bihta Airport, and the proposed Kanhauli Bus Terminal.

Improved connectivity to industrial and logistics hubs in the Bihta region is expected to facilitate efficient freight movement and contribute to economic growth in the Patna metropolitan region.

Four-Lane access-controlled Greenfield highway: Rourkela—Sithiyo (Odisha & Jharkhand):

The Ministry has also proposed a 156.10-km four-lane access-controlled Greenfield highway from Rourkela to Sithiyo, spanning Odisha and Jharkhand and passing through five districts.

Aligned with GatiShakti economic nodes, the corridor will connect key infrastructure such as a seafood cluster and a special Economic Zone (SEZ).

The corridor will interface with major national and international transport corridors, including the Asian Highway network, NH-53, NH-19, the Raipur—Dhanbad corridor, and the Golden Quadrilateral.

The project is expected to significantly enhance inter-state mobility, improve logistics efficiency, and strengthen economic integration between Odisha, Jharkhand, and neighbouring states.

Upgradation of Rafiabad—Kupwara—Tangdhar Road, Jammu & Kashmir:

To strengthen strategic and regional connectivity in border areas, MoRTH has proposed the construction and upgradation of a 62.10-km two-lane road with paved shoulders from Rafiabad to Tangdhar in the Union territory of Jammu & Kashmir.

The corridor will connect key locations, including Kupwara, Chowkibal, Tangdhar, and Teetwal, improve access to villages along the Line of Control (LoC), and enhance defence logistics by ensuring reliable movement for security forces and essential supplies.

In addition to its strategic importance, the project will deliver significant socio-economic benefits by improving access to healthcare, education, tourism, horticulture, and livelihood opportunities, while integrating the region with NH-01, Srinagar Airport, and the rail network at Sopore and Baramulla.

Leh bypass project (Phase-1), Ladakh:

MoRTH has proposed consultancy services for the construction of Leh Bypass-1, a 48.108-km two-lane Greenfield corridor with paved shoulders, starting near Phyang village (near the HPCL plant) and connecting NH-01 (Srinagar-Leh) with NH-03 (Leh-Manali) in the Union territory of Ladakh.

The bypass aims to divert through-traffic away from congested stretches of Leh city, improve transport efficiency, and enhance connectivity for passengers, goods, and remote areas, while supporting local trade and tourism.

The project will directly link NH-01, NH-03, and Leh Airport, improving logistics efficiency and strengthening access to regional and national markets.

These proposed highway projects reflect the government’s continued focus on infrastructure-led development, border area connectivity, urban decongestion, and logistics efficiency, while supporting economic growth, national security, and regional integration.

Also Read: NHAI seeks urgent action to improve mobile network connectivity in National Highways.

EOM.