NHAI's Bhubaneswar Ring Road Project Draws Robust Bidding Response
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has reported a highly encouraging level of bidder participation for its ambitious 111-kilometer, six-lane greenfield Capital Region Ring Road project in Odisha. This significant infrastructure initiative, which has been approved by the Union Cabinet, is poised to transform regional connectivity around Bhubaneswar.
Strong Bidding Across All Project Packages
Officials confirmed that bids were invited in three distinct packages, with each attracting substantial interest from contractors. Package I received an impressive 23 bids, while Package II garnered 25 bids, and Package III secured 16 bids. This robust response underscores the project's importance and viability in the eyes of the infrastructure development sector.
Project Details and Current Status
The ring road will stretch from Rameshwar to Tangi and is being developed under the hybrid annuity model. The estimated capital cost for this transformative project stands at Rs 8,307 crore. In a significant boost to its progress, NHAI has announced that approximately 96% of the required land acquisition has been completed. Furthermore, all necessary forest, wildlife, and environmental clearances have been secured, removing critical hurdles.
Timeline and Expected Benefits
Tenders for the project are anticipated to be finalized by March, with construction commencing shortly after the award. The entire project is slated for completion within a period of two and a half years. Once operational, the ring road is expected to deliver substantial benefits, including:
- Significant reduction in traffic congestion, particularly on the heavily used NH-16 that currently cuts through Bhubaneswar.
- Decongestion of Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, and Khurda, enhancing urban mobility.
- Improved regional connectivity and logistics efficiency, leading to lower transportation costs.
- Generation of employment opportunities during and after construction.
- Support for broader economic growth through safer and faster travel routes.
An official statement from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways emphasized that the corridor is strategically designed to address these multifaceted objectives, fostering a more efficient and prosperous regional economy.
