In a significant move to tackle chronic traffic congestion in Odisha’s capital, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has announced plans to expand the busy 4-lane section of NH-16 in the Palasuni area to a 6-lane highway.
This upgrade is expected to streamline daily commutes, save time for commuters and drivers, and reduce accident risks in one of the city’s most congested zones.
NHAI Odisha Chief Birendra Singh shared details of the project, emphasising its importance in controlling traffic buildup. “This is a crucial step towards managing the heavy vehicular flow in Palasuni,” Singh stated. The initiative, budgeted at approximately ₹25 crore, is slated for completion within 1.5 years. Once finished, it will not only alleviate peak-hour jams but also enhance overall road safety and infrastructure.
The Palasuni stretch forms a vital part of the Bhubaneswar-Cuttack national highway corridor, handling thousands of vehicles daily. Currently limited to four lanes, it often sees severe bottlenecks during morning and evening rush hours. Recognising this, NHAI has taken up the expansion, which will include essential additions like improved drainage systems, footpaths, and other amenities to support smoother traffic flow.
Officials from NHAI assured that work will commence soon, with all necessary precautions in place to minimise disruptions for commuters. The project is poised to make Bhubaneswar’s transportation network more efficient and user-friendly upon completion.
Local residents have welcomed the announcement, noting that demands for road widening in the area have been ongoing for years.
This infrastructure boost aligns with broader efforts to modernise urban roadways in Odisha, promising reduced congestion and improved connectivity between key cities.
