NHAI steps up Basukinath–Deoghar Highway works ahead of Shravani Mela

PNS

Ranchi

With the annual Shravani Mela 2026 approaching, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has intensified efforts to enhance road safety and commuter facilities along the Basukinath–Deoghar stretch of National Highway-114A to ensure a safe and seamless journey for millions of pilgrims.

A 45.159-km four-lane highway project between Basukinath and Deoghar is currently under construction. The upgraded corridor is expected to significantly improve connectivity and provide safer, faster and more comfortable travel for both devotees and regular commuters.

Considering the massive influx of Kanwariyas during the holy month of Shravan, when pilgrims carry holy water from Sultanganj to offer at Baba Baidyanath Dham and Basukinath Temple, NHAI is developing a dedicated 36.044-km Kanwariya path with a width of 3.5 metres. The exclusive pathway will separate pedestrian pilgrims from vehicular traffic, ensuring smoother traffic management and enhanced safety for all road users.

The project also includes the construction of 28.677 km of bypasses at Basukinath, Sahara, Taljhari, Ghormara and the Deoghar Bypass. In addition, service roads, slip roads, flyovers, a rail overbridge, underpasses and other road safety infrastructure are being developed to provide modern and efficient transport facilities.

Ahead of the Shravani Mela, NHAI has placed the project corridor under special monitoring. Road repairs, pothole-free stretches, drainage improvement, installation of road signage, reflective markings, safety barriers and cleanliness drives are being prioritised. The authority is also coordinating with various agencies to ensure uninterrupted movement and a secure travel experience for pilgrims.

An NHAI Regional Officer at the Ranchi Regional Office said the Shravani Mela is an occasion of immense religious significance for millions of devotees from Jharkhand and across the country. He said NHAI is committed to ensuring a safe and hassle-free pilgrimage, adding that the dedicated Kanwariya path being developed under the Basukinath–Deoghar four-lane project will substantially strengthen pilgrim convenience and road safety. He further said the agency is working continuously to complete all essential safety and passenger amenities before the commencement of the fair.

Once completed, the Basukinath–Deoghar four-lane project is expected to improve traffic flow and road safety while enhancing access to major religious and tourist destinations, including Baba Baidyanath Dham, Basukinath Temple and Trikut Hill. The improved connectivity is also expected to boost tourism, trade and the region’s overall economic development.