Bhubaneswar: The Centre has reportedly dropped the long-pending proposal for the construction of a four-lane road between Nayagarh and Khordha on National Highway-57, triggering disappointment in Odisha over yet another stalled infrastructure project.

The proposed project involved widening the stretch from km 239/900 to km 294/400 on NH-57 into a four-lane highway at an estimated cost of Rs 1,635 crore. The 54-km road project was considered crucial for improving connectivity between Nayagarh and Bhubaneswar while easing traffic congestion in the region.

Notably, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways had approved the Nayagarh-Khordha four-lane project in August last year along with three other highway projects in Odisha.

Odisha Govt to reapproach Centre over NH-57 project

Reacting to reports of the proposal being rejected, Odisha Works Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan said the state government would once again approach the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways with fresh proposals for several important road projects.

Speaking to reporters, the minister said discussions would also be held regarding expansion and improvement of roads in Puri and Bhubaneswar city, along with the Brahmagiri road project.

Harichandan informed that a meeting with Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari has been scheduled for May 24 to discuss the pending road infrastructure proposals.

The reported decision to drop the Nayagarh-Khordha four-lane project has sparked concerns among residents and commuters, as the existing highway often witnesses heavy traffic movement and road safety issues.

The project was expected to significantly improve transportation infrastructure in the region and boost economic activity by strengthening connectivity between central Odisha districts and the state capital.