Spanning 4,556 meters across the mighty river Ganga, the Digha–Sonpur Bridge—officially known as J. P. Setu—is a remarkable engineering feat connecting Digha Ghat in Patna (South Bihar) to Pahleja Ghat in Sonpur (North Bihar).
Named after the Indian independence activist Jayaprakash Narayan, this impressive steel K-truss structure stands as the second longest rail-cum-road bridge in India. When you visit, you will witness a vital lifeline that seamlessly blends two-lane roadway traffic with active railway tracks. Built to connect the severed north and south halves of Bihar, it eases travel across the region and offers expansive views of the river.
Beyond standard rail and road transit, the bridge has supported innovative roll-on/roll-off (RO-RO) train services that transport loaded trucks across the river to reduce carbon emissions and regional traffic congestion. Whether you are traveling by train through Patliputra Junction or Bharpura Pahleja Ghat Junction, or taking the road approach, crossing this massive structure gives you a direct look at the infrastructure transforming modern India.
What to see at Digha–Sonpur Bridge
- Marvel at a 4,556-meter K-truss steel bridge crossing the river Ganga.
- Experience India's second longest rail-cum-road bridge in action.
- Travel between Digha Ghat in Patna and Pahleja Ghat in Sonpur.
- See the innovative infrastructure named after activist Jayaprakash Narayan.
Visiting tips
If you are traveling into Patna toward Gandhi Maidan by rail, look for services stopping at Digha Bridge Halt station to save up to an hour of travel time.
How long: 1 hour · Best time: Early morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
Digha–Sonpur Bridge is easy to reach on Patna’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Mahatma Gandhi Setu and Bihar Museum. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Patna travel guide.
See the full Patna travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.