The Odisha government has announced an ambitious initiative to construct 15,000 km of roads over the next three years, with a target of completing 6,500 km by the financial year 2025-26.
This extensive infrastructure plan, which has been outlined by the state’s Works Minister, is set to overhaul the state’s road network and significantly enhance connectivity across Odisha. The project, with a projected cost of Rs 2 lakh crore, is expected to play a key role in boosting economic activities, enhancing mobility, and addressing the state’s infrastructural needs. The new road developments aim to transform both state and national highways, alongside bridges that will serve as critical links within Odisha and its neighbouring states. These upgrades are part of a larger vision to modernise transportation infrastructure, which, according to government officials, will stimulate economic growth, create job opportunities, and reduce the logistical burden on industries that rely heavily on road transport. However, the scale of the project has raised questions about its environmental and social implications, especially in terms of sustainability and equity in rural areas.
One of the key projects under the new initiative is the construction of six major road corridors. These corridors include vital routes such as the Jharsuguda-Balasore, Nuapada-Astarang, and Berhampur-Jeypore roads, which will be upgraded to six-lane highways. These projects are expected to address long-standing bottlenecks in the state’s transportation network and improve accessibility for both commercial and passenger traffic. The greater connectivity between towns and cities will also create opportunities for regional development, enabling quicker movement of goods, boosting trade, and providing better access to healthcare and education in remote areas.
In addition to the new road corridors, the state government has outlined plans for a series of landmark projects, including the Greater Ring Road, which aims to improve connectivity between various districts. The proposed 287 km stretch connecting Berhampur and Jeypore alone is set to cost Rs 9,000 crore. Another significant aspect of the project is the expansion of the Jeypore-Rourkela road, which will be upgraded to a six-lane highway at an estimated cost of Rs 2,500 crore. This will alleviate traffic congestion and reduce travel time, benefitting both passengers and transport operators. The government has also revealed plans to create an autonomous body, the Odisha State Highways Authority, to oversee the execution of these projects in a more efficient and time-bound manner. This new authority, set to be established through the Odisha State Highways Authority Bill-2025, is expected to function similarly to the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). The bill, which has already received approval from the state cabinet, is designed to streamline the process of road construction and ensure that the projects are completed within the stipulated timelines.
The road expansion projects are not only critical for improving state infrastructure but also for tackling the rising demands of urbanisation and population growth in Odisha. As cities like Bhubaneswar and Cuttack continue to experience rapid growth, the increased capacity of the road network will support better urban planning and development. Moreover, the improved infrastructure is expected to attract investments and boost tourism, given the state’s rich cultural heritage and natural attractions. However, the large-scale construction efforts raise concerns about their environmental impact, particularly in ecologically sensitive areas. While the state government has expressed commitment to sustainable development practices, it will be essential to balance infrastructural growth with environmental preservation. The long-term benefits of these projects, including enhanced road safety, reduced traffic congestion, and improved economic prospects, will be contingent upon responsible planning and execution.
While some view the projects as a necessary step towards modernising Odisha’s infrastructure, others remain sceptical about the actual benefits for rural communities, who often face the brunt of displacement and environmental degradation in large-scale development projects. As the state embarks on this massive road expansion endeavour, it will be crucial to ensure that the development is inclusive, environmentally sustainable, and equitable for all sections of society The next few years will reveal how effectively the state government can balance the need for infrastructure development with the demands of sustainability and social equity, ensuring that these projects contribute positively to the lives of Odisha’s residents.
Odisha Plans 15000 km Road Network by 2028
