The Digha-Sonpur Bridge, also known as the J P Setu, is an infrastructure project in India that spans the Ganga River. The bridge connects Patna to Sonpur, located on the opposite bank of the river. The Digha–Sonpur Bridge is named after Jayaprakash Narayan.
It is a rail-cum-road bridge that provides a vital transportation link between north and south Bihar. The construction of this bridge has also boosted the region’s economy.
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See also: Koilwar Bridge Bihar: Fact guide
Digha Bridge: History
The construction of the Digha-Sonpur Bridge started in 2002 and took over a decade. The bridge is 4.5 km and comprises steel trusses. It is the second-longest rail-cum-road bridge in India after the Bogibeel Bridge in Assam. The bridge has two lanes for vehicular traffic and a double-track railway line.
The Digha–Sonpur Bridge was inaugurated on December 12, 2015, and rail services started operating on February 3, 2016. The bridge’s construction cost was around Rs 3,000 crore.
Indian Railways constructed two railway stations on either side of the bridge – the Patliputra Junction (PPTA) and the Bharpura Pahleja Ghat Junction (PHLG).
Digha Bridge: Biodiversity around the bridge
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The biodiversity around the bridge is diverse as the Ganges River basin is home to numerous species of plants and animals.
The river is home to various types of fish, including the critically endangered Ganges River Dolphin. Other species found in the area include Indian softshell turtles, Gharials and various types of birds, such as Kingfishers and Egrets.
The vegetation in the area consists of grasslands and small forests, which provide habitat to various animals such as Wild Boars, Langurs, and Indian Pangolins. The bridge also serves as an important nesting ground for several bird species.
Digha Bridge: Best time to visit
The best time to visit the bridge is during the winter, from November to February.
Digha Bridge: How to reach?
By air: The nearest airport to the Digha-Sonpur Bridge is the Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport in Patna, around 30 km away.
By rail: The nearest railway station to the bridge is the Digha Ghat railway station, around 36 km away.
By road: The Digha-Sonpur Bridge is well-connected by road. You can take a taxi or bus from Patna to the bridge. The bridge is located on National Highway 19, which connects Patna and Kolkata.
FAQs
When was the Digha-Sonpur Bridge constructed?
The construction of the Digha-Sonpur Bridge began in 2002 and was completed in 2015.
Who constructed the Digha-Sonpur Bridge?
The Digha-Sonpur Bridge was constructed by the Indian Railways Construction Company Limited (IRCON), a public sector company under the Ministry of Railways.
Are there any toll charges for crossing the Digha-Sonpur Bridge?
No, there are no toll charges for crossing the Digha-Sonpur Bridge.
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