Bhubaneswar-Puri Route to be Upgraded into Six-Lane Access-Controlled Highway

Odisha Government’s Works Department has directed the National Highway Authority of India's (NHAI) Regional Officer to prepare a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the proposed projects.

The Odisha government has given the green light for the development of a significant infrastructure project that will see the construction of a six-lane, access-controlled highway with an additional two-lane service road on each side along the Bhubaneswar-Puri stretch of National Highway 316. This ambitious project is expected to enhance connectivity between the state capital and the pilgrimage town of Puri, providing a modern, efficient roadway designed to handle increasing traffic volumes while improving safety and reducing travel times.

In addition to the Bhubaneswar-Puri highway, plans are also underway to develop the Barbil-Chandikhole road with similar specifications. This road will also feature a six-lane access-controlled highway accompanied by two-lane service roads on both sides. The upgrade of this route is particularly significant as it will improve the movement of goods and people between key industrial regions, boosting economic activity and fostering regional development.

The Odisha government’s Works Department has taken proactive steps in moving these projects forward by issuing a directive to the Regional Officer of the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI). The directive calls for the preparation of a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for both the Bhubaneswar-Puri and Barbil-Chandikhole road projects. The DPR is a crucial document that will outline the technical, financial, and environmental aspects of the proposed highways, ensuring that all necessary considerations are addressed before construction begins.

To ensure that the projects align with the broader vision for Odisha’s infrastructure development, the Works Department has instructed that a presentation be made before the Chief Secretary of Odisha. This presentation will focus on the finalization of the road alignment and the locations where controlled access points will be established. Controlled access points are critical in maintaining the safety and efficiency of the highways, as they regulate entry and exit, thereby minimizing congestion and reducing the likelihood of accidents.

The development of these roads is part of Odisha's broader strategy to modernize its transportation network, which is essential for supporting the state's growing economy. The Bhubaneswar-Puri highway is particularly important, not only for its role in facilitating tourism to one of India's most revered pilgrimage sites but also for connecting key urban centres within the state. As Puri is a hub of cultural and religious significance, the highway’s expansion is expected to cater to the growing number of visitors, especially during major festivals and events.

Similarly, the upgrade of the Barbil-Chandikhole road is crucial for enhancing the industrial connectivity of the region. Barbil, located in the mineral-rich Keonjhar district, is a key center for iron ore mining and other industrial activities. Improved road infrastructure will facilitate the smoother transportation of minerals and other goods to Chandikhole, an important logistical hub with links to various parts of the state and beyond.

The Odisha government’s focus on infrastructure development reflects its commitment to creating a robust and efficient transportation network that supports economic growth and enhances the quality of life for its citizens. The proposed highways will not only reduce travel time but also contribute to the overall development of the regions they connect by improving accessibility, encouraging investments, and creating new opportunities for businesses and communities.

As the project moves into the planning and design phase, various stakeholders, including government officials, engineers, and environmental experts, will collaborate to ensure that the highways are constructed in a manner that balances development with sustainability. Environmental impact assessments will be conducted to minimize any potential adverse effects on the local ecosystem, and the needs of the communities living along the proposed routes will be taken into account.

In conclusion, the approval of the Bhubaneswar-Puri and Barbil-Chandikhole highway projects marks a significant milestone in Odisha’s infrastructure development journey. These projects, once completed, will transform the transportation landscape of the state, making travel safer, faster, and more efficient while contributing to the economic prosperity of the region. With the groundwork being laid through the preparation of detailed project reports and careful planning of access control and alignment, Odisha is poised to take a major leap forward in its quest to build a world-class transportation network.