Bhubaneswar: The State Government has decided to formulate a special policy for construction of road network in the State to enhance traffic management and address construction-related challenges.
It was decided during a review meeting chaired by Works Minister Prithviraj Harichandan today. Development Commissioner Anu Garg was present.
Principal Secretary Works, Vir Vikram Yadav presented details on the proposed Road Policy.
Shri Harichandan emphasized the need for a dedicated policy on road construction, citing frequent issues arising from a lack of coordination during road construction and repair projects.
The proposed policy would aim to address these challenges while planning for the State’s road infrastructure needs over the next 50 years.
The status of various roads in the state was discussed. A comprehensive database was prepared at the meeting.
A roadmap was prepared at the meeting to address traffic problems, taking into consideration the construction of new roads, repair of existing roads, construction of bridges, and the acquisition of private and forest land for development.
The meeting explored innovative approaches, such as using waste materials like plastic in road construction, minimizing the use of raw materials, and creating a special corpus fund for maintaining construction quality and durability.
The Minister also highlighted recurring problems where various organizations dig up roads without government permission for laying cables, constructing drains, or installing sewers.
To address such issues, the proposed policy will include provisions for imposing fines on organizations conducting such activities without authorization.
The discussion also focused on filling the gap in skilled human resources, leveraging modern technology during construction, and ensuring the development of all-weather roads in villages with populations of 100 or more by 2029.