ADB approves $500 million loan for bridge over Ganga River in Bihar

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a 500 million dollars loan to build a bridge across the Ganga River in Bihar. The loan funds will be used to build 9.8 km road bridge in Bihar on the Ganga River. On completion of the project it will be the India’s longest river bridge. Key Facts The new river bridge will provide a vital transport link between the northern and southern parts of the state and

neighbouring Nepal. It will make it easier for people to move between jobs and markets, particularly for poorer communities in the north of Bihar to the south of the river. In all, the bridge is expected to benefit over nine million people as it is going to serve as an alternate route to the existing Ganga bridge, which has begun to deteriorate. The length and height of the bridge has been designed to minimize impacts on the river itself. The design parameters of the bridge will also ensure that it is able to withstand climate-related stresses such as a rise in the water level. About Asian Development Bank (ADB) ADB is multilateral lending agency based in Manila, Philippines. It is dedicated to reduce poverty in Asia and the Pacific region through inclusive economic growth, environmentally sustainable growth, and regional integration. It is collectively owned by 67 members – 48 from the region including India.