Bhubaneswar: Odisha is currently maintaining an advanced position in the field of infrastructure development compared to other states. This progress is backed by numerous large-scale projects currently underway and a pipeline of upcoming initiatives.
During a review meeting at the Lok Seva Bhawan conference hall, the Minister for Works, Law, and Excise, Shri Prithviraj Harichandan, emphasized that the state government’s primary goal is to provide the highest quality facilities to the public, and all departmental actions must align with this vision. Principal Secretary Works and Chairman OBCC, Shri Sanjay Kumar Singh outlined the points for deliberations.
The Minister reviewed the progress of State Highway projects and various initiatives managed by the Odisha Bridge and Construction Corporation (OBCC).
Specific attention was given to urban development projects aimed at reducing traffic congestion in major cities, including Bhubaneswar, Sambalpur, Cuttack, Rourkela, Puri, Balasore, Keonjhar, and Berhampur. The discussions focused on creating a comprehensive roadmap for the next three years to ensure these projects are executed efficiently.
The strategic plan includes the modernization of prominent temples, the widening of existing roads, and regular maintenance schedules to ensure long-term durability. To enhance the commuter experience, the government plans to establish Way Side Amenity Centers along major routes. Furthermore, Minister Shri Harichandan directed departmental officials and engineers to expedite the development of approximately 3,300 kilometers of roads that were recently transferred from the Rural Development Department to the Works Department.
Principal Secretary Works and OBCC Chief, Shri Sanjay Kumar Singh provided a detailed briefing on the various projects currently being handled by the department.
The meeting was attended by senior officials including Special Secretary Shri Laxmikant Padhi, Additional Secretary Shri Deepak Ranjan Das, and several Engineers-in-Chief specializing in civil design, planning, and roads. The presence of financial advisors and chief engineers underscored the government’s multi-disciplinary approach to accelerating Odisha’s infrastructure growth.