In a major boost to Odisha’s infrastructure and traffic management system, the Central Government has approved several key road widening and highway expansion projects aimed at reducing congestion and improving connectivity across the State, especially in the capital city of Bhubaneswar.

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This information was shared on Tuesday by Odisha Works Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan following his meeting with Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari in New Delhi.

According to the Works Minister, the Centre has directed officials to take immediate steps regarding the widening and modernisation of major highways in Odisha.

One of the most significant projects includes the expansion of NH-316 connecting the capital city, Bhubaneswar, and pilgrimage town Puri into a six-lane controlled highway with continuous service roads. Work on the project is expected to begin soon.

Similarly, the Tangi-Puintala-Brahmapur-Ichhapuram stretch of NH-16 will be upgraded into a six-lane highway with service roads. Authorities have been instructed to prepare the Detailed Project Report (DPR) and begin the tender process at the earliest.

The Centre has also approved the proposal to convert the Puri-Brahmagiri-Satapada route into a four-lane road, improving connectivity to important tourism destinations around the Chilika Lake region.

In another major step to reduce traffic congestion in Bhubaneswar, service roads from Palasuni to Khandagiri and Tamando will be widened into eight lanes. Officials believe the expansion will significantly ease traffic movement in the rapidly growing State Capital.

The ambitious projects are expected to strengthen transportation infrastructure, improve road safety, reduce travel time, and support Odisha’s economic and tourism growth.