Bhubaneswar, April 5: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Chandra Majhi expressed gratitude on Saturday to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari for approving ₹447.11 crore for a crucial national highway segment in the state.
In a statement on behalf of the people of Odisha, the Chief Minister noted that the sanctioned funds would strengthen an important interstate corridor and improve connectivity across several districts.
The project involves the development of a 103.52-kilometer stretch between NH-353 and NH-59, connecting the Kurumpuri-Raj Kharaiyar section in Nuapada and Balangir districts.
This corridor links the Raipur-Mahasamund area of Chhattisgarh to Odisha, extending further to Berhampur and Gopalpur ports.
In a post on the social media platform X, CM Majhi stated that this investment would enhance road safety, facilitate the movement of passengers and goods, and unlock significant tourism potential in areas like Daringbadi and Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary.
He emphasized that this transformative project would accelerate regional development and bring lasting prosperity to the people of Odisha.
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, in a separate post on X, mentioned that the project would benefit Nuapada, Balangir, Kalahandi, Kandhamal, and Ganjam districts. He added that the works would include improvements to black spots and the construction of paved shoulders, enhancing safety for travelers, especially two-wheeler riders.
Gadkari noted that better highways would ease passenger and freight transport, increase access to hilly areas and tourist sites, and promote local tourism and economic activities.
The project is expected to significantly benefit regions in southern and western Odisha that have long needed improved road infrastructure. Upon completion, it is likely to reduce travel time, lower logistics costs, and boost trade between Odisha and neighboring Chhattisgarh.
Officials have indicated that the construction phase of this project is also anticipated to create jobs and generate new economic opportunities in the region.
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