By Vishwapati
Patna: The Central Government has approved the final alignment for the much-anticipated Gorakhpur-Siliguri Expressway, a 568.42 km, six-lane infrastructure megaproject set to transform connectivity between Delhi, Hindi-speaking states, and India’s northeastern region. With an estimated budget of ₹37,500 crore, the expressway will slash travel times and stimulate economic growth in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and the Northeast.
Key Economic and Regional Impact
The expressway will traverse eight districts in Bihar—West Champaran, East Champaran, Sheohar, Sitamarhi, Madhubani, Supaul, Araria, and Kishanganj—with 417.15 km (73% of the route) passing through the state. Himalayan Terai districts, known for their agricultural and ecological significance, are poised to witness a surge in land values, with experts predicting land prices could “outpace gold” due to enhanced accessibility and commercial potential.
Strategic Infrastructure Features
Designed for speeds of up to 120 km/h, the expressway will include elevated sections, straight alignments to minimize turns, and safety railings. Major bridges over the Gandak, Bagmati, and Kosi rivers will ensure seamless connectivity. The corridor will span a 100-meter-wide right-of-way, with land acquisition processes expected to commence shortly.
Timeline and Benefits
Construction is slated to begin within six months after tendering, promising job creation and long-term logistical advantages. Once operational, the expressway will reduce travel duration between Gorakhpur and Siliguri by half, bolstering trade, tourism, and regional integration.
This project underscores the government’s focus on bridging infrastructural gaps in eastern India while unlocking economic opportunities for landholders and businesses in historically underserved regions.
The author, Vishwapati, is a senior journalist based in Patna. He may be contacted at vishwapati25@gmail.com
