Urban Development Minister Jivesh Kumar inaugurated 198 projects and laid the foundation stone for 264 more at a program held at Nagar BS College on Tuesday.
Patna: This Independence Day is set to be historic for Patna, the capital of Bihar. During a special event on Tuesday, Urban Development Minister Jivesh Kumar announced that Patna will be included in the list of metro cities starting August 15, 2025. This news is a source of pride and excitement for Patna's residents, as it signifies a major transformation in the city's transportation system and urban infrastructure.
Inauguration of 198 Projects, Foundation Stone Laid for 264
During the ceremony held at Nagar BS College in Danapur, the Minister inaugurated a total of 198 development projects and laid the foundation stone for 264 new initiatives. Minister Jivesh Kumar explicitly stated the state government's complete commitment to development work and the availability of ample resources. The government has allocated ₹96 crore for Danapur's development, encompassing basic amenities such as water supply, sewerage systems, road construction, community halls, and shelters. This includes the construction of Samrat Ashok Bhavan and community centers in various wards, providing convenient services to the public.
Patna Metro: Revitalizing the Capital's Transportation
The Urban Development Minister stated that Patna will achieve a significant milestone on August 15th with the Patna Metro. From that day onwards, the capital will be officially recognized as a metro city. He explained that the metro project is progressing rapidly, with preparations for the first phase nearing completion. The Patna Metro will not only streamline urban transportation but will also promote the city's environment, energy conservation, and modern lifestyle. This project is part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Smart City' mission and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's 'Developed Bihar' vision.
Rapid Urbanization: Targeting 30% Population Coverage
The Minister also mentioned that by 2005, only 11% of Bihar's population fell under municipal corporations, a figure that has now risen to 18%. The government aims to increase this figure to 30%, ensuring that more people benefit from urban amenities. He appealed to councilors to submit proposals based on their areas' needs, assuring them of full government support.
Approval for Chief Minister's Schemes
Jivesh Kumar informed that Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has approved projects worth ₹1500-1600 crore to improve water supply and sewerage systems in various municipal bodies across the state. This funding will strengthen the cities' infrastructure. The Minister instructed officials to show full respect for the role and contribution of councilors, as they are the closest representatives of the people. Speaking on women's empowerment, he stated that today's daughters are not merely flowers but sparks, igniting new directions for society.
This significant event was attended by Chief Councilor Shilpi Kumari, Deputy Chief Councilor Sarita Devi, MLA Anamika Singh, Executive Officer Pankaj Kumar, Nagar Manager Brajesh Singh, along with a large number of councilors and dignitaries. All expressed their hopes for Patna's bright future and hailed the metro project as historic.
