Patna: Urban development and housing minister Nitish Mishra on Wednesday said the state govt plans to develop signature roads across cities in Bihar and focus on modern, quality infrastructure to meet the challenges of rapid urbanisation.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, Mishra said only around 11% of Bihar’s population lives in urban areas compared to the national average of 33%, underscoring the need for planned urban growth.He urged engineers to prioritise quality, timely execution, proper planning and the use of modern technology. The minister also highlighted initiatives such as satellite townships and stressed that infrastructure projects should ensure better connectivity and improve citizens’ quality of life.The minister highlighted the importance of report writing, project monitoring, proper documentation and improved working practices. Referring to the recent All India Urban Conclave in Bhubaneswar, attended by ministers, secretaries and officials from urban development departments across the country, he said such events offer opportunities to learn from new ideas and successful practices.N Vijayalakshmi, additional chief secretary of the planning and development department, called for responsible use of public funds, transparent financial management and the adoption of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence.Mishra later distributed certificates to the trainees and encouraged them to undertake projects that create a lasting impact on urban development.
