Bihar CM Launches ₹542-Crore Tunnel Linking Two Patna Museums

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Sunday launched the construction of a ₹542-crore underground tunnel that will connect the Bihar Museum and the Patna Museum in Patna , with the state government describing the project as an effort to strengthen tourism infrastructure and improve visitor access between the two major cultural institutions.

During his visit to the project site near Hartali Mor on Nehru Path, Kumar formally initiated the work by pressing a button to start the tunnelling machine. Once completed, the underground corridor will allow visitors to move easily between the two museums without having to cross the busy road separating them.

Officials said the project is intended to create an integrated museum complex , enabling tourists and researchers to explore both institutions in a single visit. The government expects the tunnel to help increase tourist footfall and further promote heritage tourism in the state capital.

Authorities also pointed to safety and traffic considerations , noting that the museums are located on opposite sides of a major road and that an underground passage would reduce the need for pedestrians to cross heavy traffic. The tunnel is also expected to enhance the overall visitor experience and improve connectivity within the cultural precinct.

At the same time, the high cost of the project has sparked discussion in public circles, with some questioning whether the funds could have been better utilised for roads or other essential infrastructure in the state. Officials, however, say the project falls under tourism and urban development spending and is aimed at strengthening long-term cultural infrastructure.

During the visit, Kumar also toured the Bihar Museum and reviewed ongoing redevelopment work at a nearby residential and officers’ hostel complex comprising 60 housing units, along with a park being developed in front of the museum. He directed officials to expedite the work and ensure adequate parking and other visitor facilities in anticipation of increased footfall once the tunnel becomes operational.