Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar at Golghar during inspection
By Neeraj Kumar
Patna: Chief Minister Nitish Kumar inspected Golghar, one of Bihar’s most significant historical landmarks and a key symbol of Patna’s identity. He was accompanied by Janata Dal (United) national executive president and Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Jha.
During the inspection, the Chief Minister reviewed the overall condition of the structure and sought detailed information from officials about Golghar’s architecture, its structural health, and proposed facilities such as a light, sound and laser show. He also issued necessary directions for further improvements.
Golghar, located in the heart of the state capital, is a relic of the British era. It was constructed in 1786 for the British Army under the supervision of Captain John Garstin, in the aftermath of the devastating famine of 1770. The construction was completed on July 20, 1786.
Built with the objective of grain storage and famine prevention, Golghar has a capacity to store nearly 1,40,000 tonnes of grain. Designed in a stupa-like architectural style, the structure is notable for its 3.6-metre-thick walls, absence of pillars, and a height of 29 metres. It also features 145 winding steps leading to the top, offering a panoramic view of Patna.
Although Golghar has long been a popular destination for visitors to Patna, it has remained closed to the public for an extended period due to restoration work. Renovation began in 2017, but progress was affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. While it was briefly reopened, it was shut again in the name of further beautification.
Facilities such as lighting and other amenities were developed under the Chief Minister’s directions starting in 2013. Despite this, for a long time, visitors were not permitted to climb the structure, forcing tourists to admire it only from the outside.
Following the Chief Minister’s inspection, there is renewed hope that Golghar will soon be reopened, allowing the general public to once again climb to the top and enjoy a sweeping view of the city of Patna.
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