In a significant boost to Odisha’s infrastructure drive, Public Works, Law and Excise Minister Prithviraj Harichandan chaired a high-level review meeting on Monday to fast-track 48 National Highway projects across the state.
The minister directed officials to complete all works within the stipulated timelines and resolve pending issues delaying execution.
Harichandan emphasised that under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, the state is making rapid strides in strengthening its road network. “The Centre is always ready to provide more funds to Odisha. With many projects already under construction and several new ones in the pipeline, we must adopt planned and coordinated execution,” he said.
Major Milestones Ahead
The minister announced that 49 National Highway projects worth ₹1,721 crore are nearing completion and will be inaugurated very soon. Additionally, foundation stones for 47 new projects valued at ₹12,102 crore will be laid in the coming weeks.
He credited the commitment of the state government and the dedication of engineers for the accelerated progress compared to previous years.
Key Challenges and Focus Areas
During the review, officials discussed 30 ongoing projects, 14 projects awaiting work orders, and 4 projects in the tendering stage. Prominent projects under discussion included:
- Bhajanagar–Aska Road
- Riamal Bypass Road
- Brahmapur Bypass
- Khariar Road ROB
- Puri–Matiapada ROB
- Nayagarh Bypass
- High-level bridges over the Baitarani and Tel rivers
- Malkangiri–Motu Road, and several bypasses at Titlagarh, Nabarangpur, Jharasuguda, Rairangpur, and Dasapalla.
Chief Secretary-level officers stressed the need for faster land acquisition, forest clearance, utility shifting, and better inter-departmental coordination to maintain momentum.
The meeting was attended by senior officials, including Principal Secretary Sanjay Kumar Singh, EIC L.K. Padhi, Chief Engineers, representatives from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Power Department, OPTCL, and contractors.
Odisha is firmly on track to emerge as one of India’s leading states in road infrastructure development.
