Bhubaneswar: In a significant move to enhance connectivity and spur economic growth in Odisha, Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways, Nitin Gadkari, inaugurated 28 National Highway projects worth Rs 6,600 crore via video conferencing from Shri Jagannath Puri. The event witnessed the presence of Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnav, Bharatiya Janata Party National Spokesperson Shri Sambit Patra, along with MPs, MLAs, and officials.
The inaugurated projects include the 6-laning of the Chandikhol to Bhadrak section of National Highway-16 and the 4-laning of the Baharagora-Singhra section of National Highway-49. These initiatives aim to reduce travel time, save fuel, and improve connectivity to ports along the east coast, fostering increased industrial activities.
With a focus on propelling Odisha’s development, the foundation stone for 26 ambitious projects has been laid, accompanied by the commencement of work on 13 additional projects. The completion of these ventures is expected to catalyze the economic development of Odisha, ensuring safer and timely travel for devotees visiting Shri Jagannath Dham and the Konark Temple. Moreover, these infrastructure developments will enhance connectivity between Odisha and other states, streamline access to ports for mining and raw materials, and boost overall economic activities.
Union Minister Gadkari emphasized, “These projects mark a crucial step towards achieving our goal of fostering economic growth in Odisha. Improved connectivity, especially to ports, will play a pivotal role in enhancing industrial and economic activities in the region. Additionally, the construction of the railway bridge will ensure safer and more efficient travel.” The projects inaugurated today align with the central government’s commitment to developing robust infrastructure and connectivity networks across the country.