New Delhi: To further strengthen connectivity between the two major industrial cities – Sambalpur and Jharsuguda – Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan met Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari in New Delhi on Wednesday and requested the construction of an alternative National Highway.
Sambalpur and Jharsuguda districts form the backbone of Odisha’s economy. The construction of this new National Highway is expected to accelerate industrial growth in the region and create new employment opportunities. The proposed highway will not only connect Sambalpur and Jharsuguda but also serve as a milestone in Odisha’s industrial and regional development, according to an official statement. Along with improving transportation, it is expected to bring transformative changes in trade and commerce.
Pradhan stated that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Purvodaya’ vision, priority is being accorded to strengthening Odisha’s infrastructure. Once completed, this alternative highway will significantly improve the social and economic lives of people in the region.
Meanwhile, Bhubaneswar MP Aparajita Sarangi on Wednesday called on Gadkari in New Delhi and discussed key issues aimed at easing traffic flow and strengthening highway infrastructure in the state capital region.
During the meeting, Sarangi sought approval for a vehicular underpass at Baghamari on National Highway 57, citing rising vehicular pressure and movement of residents as reasons for urgent intervention. She also urged the ministry to clear three bypass proposals at Begunia, Sunakhela, and Pubusahi, which she said would help decongest the NH stretch and provide seamless connectivity for commuters and freight carriers.
Another priority highlighted by the Bhubaneswar MP was the widening of the Khurda–Nayagarh road to four lanes. She maintained that the route has seen a surge in traffic due to rapid urban and industrial expansion and requires immediate upgradation to ensure smoother and safer travel.
Sarangi later stated that projects worth around Rs111 crore have been sanctioned, marking a significant step forward for road development in the region.
