Odisha Govt to Construct Roads to Remote Villages for Improved Medical Access

Bhubaneswar: In a significant move to extend medical services to remote corners of Odisha, the state government has announced the construction of black-topped roads to villages with populations exceeding 100. This initiative aims to ensure that essential medical services reach even the most isolated communities.

Minister of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Rabi Narayan Nayak, made the announcement during a departmental review meeting on Tuesday. “The list of villages has already been prepared, and the government targets constructing 350 kilometers of roads to these villages under the PM JANMAN Yojana,” stated Nayak. “Since ambulances were unable to reach these villages, often leaving critical patients and pregnant women stranded, the government is prioritizing these roadworks.”

In addition to road construction, the minister highlighted plans for bridge-cum-barrages to provide irrigation water to farmers. He also noted that roads built under the PM Gram Sadak Yojana and CM Sadak Yojana would be upgraded to two-way roads, enhancing connectivity and transportation safety.

Nayak emphasized the importance of maintaining high-quality standards in these construction projects. He issued a stern warning to officials and contractors, stating that any negligence in quality would result in strict action.

“The government targets constructing 200 such bridges in the coming 100 days,” Nayak added, underscoring the commitment to rapid infrastructure development. He also stressed that only local people would be engaged in all departmental works, ensuring community involvement and employment generation.

This ambitious infrastructure push reflects Odisha’s dedication to improving rural healthcare access and agricultural support, fostering sustainable development across the state.