In a major push to Odisha’s infrastructure development, the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has approved road development projects worth ₹44,771 crore for the financial year 2025–26. The approvals span National Highways, State Highways, and key works under the Central Road and Infrastructure Fund (CRIF).
Massive Allocation for National and State Highways
Of the total sanctioned amount, the Centre has earmarked ₹30,000 crore for the expansion and upgradation of National Highways across Odisha. Another ₹13,000 crore has been allocated for the development of State Highways, marking one of the highest annual infrastructure approvals for the state.
State Minister for Works, Law and Excise Prithviraj Harichandan, who met Union Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari in New Delhi, confirmed the approvals after reviewing Odisha’s highway and connectivity priorities.
Greenfield High-Speed Corridor to Paradip
A major highlight of the approval is the Centre’s nod for a new Greenfield high-speed corridor between Bhubaneswar and Paradip, aimed at boosting direct connectivity to Odisha’s largest port. The corridor is expected to play a crucial role in industrial logistics and economic growth.
Key National Highway Projects Cleared
Several transformative National Highway upgrades have been approved, including:
-
Bhubaneswar–Puri Highway to be expanded into an 8-lane corridor.
-
Tangi–Puintola–Ichhapuram (140 km) stretch to be upgraded into 6 lanes.
-
Rourkela–Bada Bil–Paradip via Duburi (400 km) corridor to be expanded into 8 lanes.
-
Pallahara–Pitiri (68 km) stretch under NH-149 to be widened into 4 lanes.
These upgrades are expected to ease congestion, improve safety, and support the rapid growth of industrial hubs and pilgrimage routes.
CRIF Allocation Fulfils IRC Commitments
The Centre has sanctioned ₹1,500 crore under the CRIF scheme, fulfilling commitments made during the Indian Road Congress (IRC) held in Bhubaneswar in November 2025. The funds will go toward strengthening strategic road links across districts.
Major State Highway Projects Approved
In addition to the NH works, the Centre has sanctioned ₹13,141 crore for critical State Highway developments. Projects include:
-
Barpali–Balangir widening
-
Kesinga–Bhawanipatna–Junagarh corridor strengthening
-
Balangir–Nayagarh road development
-
Hinjilikatu Bypass construction
-
Mohana–Paralakhemundi highway upgrade
-
Additional enhancements along NH-26
These projects aim to improve inter-district connectivity and rural access.
Boost for Odisha’s Connectivity and Economy
The newly approved projects are set to dramatically improve road infrastructure, enhance mobility between major districts, support industrial corridors, and prepare Odisha’s transport network for the next decade of economic expansion.