Patna: The plan to install 500 pre-fabricated shops on the 2-km stretch of the JP Ganga path between Digha roundabout and Kurji was stalled following intervention from the higher authorities regarding the obstruction of the river view.While the structures were initially intended to be permanent, the National Green Tribunal restricted construction on the river bed.Sources in the Patna Municipal Corporation (PMC) said although 200 of these units were already manufactured, the chief minister’s office expressed concern that the closed designs would block the view of the Ganga river, which is being developed as a prime tourist destination for the city.In response to these concerns, the Patna Smart City Limited (PSCL) has redesigned the units.PSCL, PRO, Priya Saurabh said, “Two redesigned samples have been produced as open modular structures to maintain visual access to the river. Further production and cost assessments will depend on the approval of these new samples by the relevant authorities.” The 200 existing closed units are currently held in a storage yard, with a proposal under consideration to hand them over to Jeevika self-help groups for alternative use.The JP Gangapath beautification project spans over 4.5 km with an estimated cost of Rs48 crore. This includes installation of lights, about 90,000 plantations, open gyms, seating areas, a zigzag park, and vending zones.The first-phase, extending from Digha roundabout to LCT ghat, will cost Rs36 crore, while the second phase, upto Gandhi Maidan, is estimated to be built at Rs11 crore. As part of this second phase, the zigzag park is being extended by 1,440 metres from LCT ghat towards Gandhi Maidan.The development also includes a designated no-vending zone between Kurji and LCT ghat, covering a distance of approximately 650 metres. This section is intended to remain clear of commercial stalls to facilitate walking and leisure activities directly alongside the river.PMC commissioner and PSCL managing director Yashpal Meena, who is overseeing the beautification process, said the work is being expedited and is nearing completion.
