Centre Greenlights Rs 447.11 Crore for Major Highway Upgrade in Odisha
In a significant infrastructure boost for Odisha, the Union government has approved a substantial investment of Rs 447.11 crore for the comprehensive upgradation of the Kurumpuri–Raj Khariar stretch. This critical project encompasses 103.52 kilometers of National Highways 353 and 59, traversing the Nuapada and Balangir districts. The announcement was made by Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari on Saturday through an official post on social media platform X.
Enhancing a Vital Inter-State Corridor
Minister Gadkari emphasized that NH-353 and NH-59 collectively form a pivotal inter-state corridor. This route serves as a crucial link connecting the Raipur–Mahasamund region in Chhattisgarh with Odisha, and further extends towards Berhampur and the strategic Gopalpur port. The minister detailed that the project is designed to significantly bolster regional and inter-state connectivity. It promises to ensure smoother and more efficient movement for both passenger and freight traffic across multiple districts, including Nuapada, Balangir, Kalahandi, Kandhamal, and Ganjam.
Focus on Road Safety and Infrastructure Improvements
The planned corridor improvement is not merely about expansion but incorporates vital safety enhancements. The project scope includes the rectification of identified black spots—areas with a history of accidents—and the provision of paved shoulders along the route. These measures are expected to substantially enhance overall road safety. This is particularly crucial for two-wheelers, which constitute a large and vulnerable share of the traffic volume in this region, thereby aiming to reduce accident risks.
Boosting Tourism and Local Economic Prospects
Beyond connectivity and safety, the highway upgrade is poised to unlock economic and tourism potential. Gadkari highlighted that the improved infrastructure will provide better access to key tourist destinations in the area. This includes the picturesque hill station of Daringbadi, the Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary, and various nearby hill areas. Enhanced accessibility is anticipated to boost tourism inflows, stimulate local hospitality and service sectors, and foster broader economic activity in these regions.
Strategic Highway Linkages Explained
To understand the project's strategic importance, it is essential to note the individual roles of these highways. National Highway 353 serves as the connector between Mahasamund district in Chhattisgarh and Khariar in Odisha's Nuapada district. Concurrently, National Highway 59 links Khariar in Nuapada district with Berhampur in Ganjam district. The upgradation of this combined stretch is, therefore, a linchpin in strengthening the economic and logistical ties between these states and facilitating smoother access to coastal ports.
This substantial investment underscores the government's commitment to developing robust road infrastructure in eastern India, aiming to catalyze regional development, improve safety standards, and create new avenues for growth through enhanced connectivity.
