India, March 9 -- Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Sunday launched the construction of a Rs 542-crore underground tunnel that will connect the Bihar Museum and Patna Museum, officials said.

During his visit to the site, Kumar formally initiated the construction work by pressing a button to start the tunnelling machine.

The proposed museum subway is slated to be built near Hartali Mor on Nehru Path in Patna.

"Once the tunnel is completed, people will be able to easily go from one museum to the other to see the exhibits," Kumar said.

The project is expected to significantly increase tourist footfall, he added.

According to a statement issued by the CMO, officials briefed the chief minister on the construction process and the propos...