Taking a decisive step toward reshaping Odisha’s infrastructure future, Works Minister Shri Prithiviraj Harichandan on Wednesday announced that the state government is preparing a comprehensive long-term road policy that will define Odisha’s connectivity vision for the next 50 years.
The announcement was made during the second day of the Collectors’ Conference, where the Minister reaffirmed Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi’s commitment to building a modern, efficient, and future-ready Odisha.
A Vision for the Next Half-Century
Harichandan stated that roads remain the lifeline of growth, and both the State and the Centre are placing unprecedented priority on infrastructure development.
He stressed that the new policy will address:
- Long-term highway expansion
- Rural and tribal region connectivity
- Industrial corridors
- Urban decongestion
- Climate-resilient infrastructure
- Intelligent traffic and mobility planning
“The upcoming policy is designed keeping in mind where Odisha must stand 50 years from now,” Harichandan emphasised.
Bypass & Ring Roads for Urban Decongestion
The Minister directed all Collectors to prepare town development blueprints, including:
- Bypass corridors
- Ring roads
- Flyovers and underpasses
- Improved drainage and urban mobility planning
“These measures will reduce congestion, improve travel efficiency, and support expanding urban centres across the state,” he added.
A Pothole-Free Odisha: Priority on Quality & Maintenance
Reiterating his commitment to world-class road infrastructure, Harichandan announced:
- Priority construction of pothole-free roads
- Strengthening of existing roads
- Introduction of stringent maintenance protocols
- Regular monitoring through district-level engineering teams
“Odians deserve safe, smooth and durable roads. Our focus is not only on construction but also sustained upkeep,” he noted.
Simplifying Land Acquisition
Recognising land acquisition as a recurring bottleneck in infrastructure projects, the Minister confirmed that the government will:
- Streamline acquisition procedures
- Create faster coordination channels between departments
- Reduce bureaucratic delays for key developmental works
- Ensure fair compensation and transparent communication with landowners
“Removing hurdles will accelerate the pace of growth statewide,” Harichandan said.
Focus on Smart Urban Growth
Housing & Urban Development Minister Krushna Chandra Mahapatra also addressed the conference, highlighting that the government aims to rehabilitate slum dwellers into well-equipped, planned colonies with essential amenities.
“Our goal is to ensure equitable, dignified living conditions for all citizens while supporting organised urban expansion,” he said.
A Determined Government, A Clear Roadmap
The Works Minister’s announcements reflect the Majhi Government’s decisive governance model, marked by:
- Structural reforms
- Speedy implementation
- Future-focused planning
- Rural–urban balance
- People-centric development
Under CM Mohan Majhi’s leadership, the Works Department—guided by Harichandan—is emerging as a key driver of Odisha’s growth story, laying the foundation for faster connectivity, industrial expansion, and inclusive development.