Odisha Cabinet approves ₹6,700-crore scheme to modernise rural roads

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Cabinet has approved a ₹6,700-crore road infrastructure programme to improve nearly 25,500 km of roads across the state over the next five years, with a focus on enhancing connectivity in rural and remote areas.

The MMSY-Transferred Roads Improvement Programme (TRIP) will be implemented from 2025-26 to 2029-30 and will cover roads transferred from the Panchayati Raj Department and other government departments. The Cabinet has also given its approval for the completion of all ongoing projects under the scheme during this period.

According to the government, the programme is intended to improve road access to healthcare institutions, schools, colleges, gram panchayats, markets, commercial centres and tourist destinations, making essential services more accessible to people across the state.

Officials said the initiative is expected to strengthen connectivity in interior regions, benefiting residents of remote villages by improving mobility, facilitating economic activities and enhancing access to education, healthcare and other public services. The upgraded road network is also expected to support local trade and contribute to overall socio-economic development.

With the Cabinet’s approval, the Rural Development Department will begin implementing the projects in a phased manner. The government said the programme is aimed at creating a durable and efficient road network to support Odisha’s long-term rural development goals.