Bihar plans to develop signature roads across all its cities as the state prepares for faster urbanisation, urban development and housing minister Nitish Mishra said on Wednesday. The proposed roads form part of a broader infrastructure strategy focused on planned growth, improved connectivity and the use of technology in public works.

Mishra announced the programme while addressing the valedictory session of a 28-day training programme for junior engineers at the Lalit Narayan Mishra Institute of Economic Development and Social Change. He said infrastructure planning would become increasingly important as Bihar’s urban population expands and cities require more coordinated development.

Around 11 per cent of Bihar’s population currently lives in urban areas, compared with a national average of 33 per cent, according to the minister. He cited the gap while stressing the importance of preparing cities for future growth through planned development instead of isolated infrastructure projects.

Mishra asked engineers to prioritise quality, timely execution and proper planning while delivering urban projects. He also highlighted modern technology, project monitoring, report writing, documentation and improved working practices as important elements of effective implementation. The proposed programme was discussed alongside initiatives such as satellite townships and broader efforts to manage urban expansion.

The announcement did not specify the cities to be covered, the length or design standards of the roads, funding arrangements, approvals or a construction timetable. Details of how the roads would connect with existing networks and planned townships were also not provided.

N Vijayalakshmi, additional chief secretary of the planning and development department, called for responsible use of public funds and transparent financial management. She encouraged officials to adopt emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, in government work. Mishra also referred to the recent All India Urban Conclave in Bhubaneswar, saying such forums help state officials study new approaches to urban development. He later distributed certificates to the trainees and urged them to undertake projects that create a lasting impact on Bihar’s urban infrastructure.