Bhubaneswar: A massive infrastructure overhaul has been set into motion across Odisha as the Department of Works unveils a transformative Three Year Action Plan valued at 45,000 crore rupees. Designed as a definitive roadmap for regional development, much like a Shrimad Bhagwat Gita for the planners, engineers, this action plan chalked out by a hardworking mandarin, Shri Sanjay Kumar Singh, focuses on modernizing the state transport network through high-capacity roads, advanced structural health monitoring, and modern engineering policies.
At the helm of this vision is Principal Secretary Works, Shri Sanjay Kumar Singh, whose strategic emphasis on long-term planning and systematic execution forms the backbone of the initiative. Backed by Minister of Law, Works, and Excise Shri Prithiviraj Harichandan and supported by Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi, the initiative prioritizes operational transparency and administrative efficiency across all levels of implementation.
A major pillar of the plan focuses on safeguarding Odisha bridge network, which encompasses more than 1500 structures. Under the new guidelines, all major bridges will undergo thorough scientific health assessments to measure structural load limits, pinpoint hidden vulnerabilities, and determine necessary retrofitting. This continuous structural evaluation process is intended to minimize safety risks while significantly extending the operational lifespan of vital river and highway crossings.
Alongside bridge maintenance, the state is advancing a broad vision for road expansion, aiming for a long-term goal of 70,000 kilometers of high-standard roadways. Within the direct jurisdiction of the Works Department, 15,000 kilometers of high-traffic corridors are slated for comprehensive upgrades. High-density urban projects are already taking shape under this framework, such as the redevelopment of the Jaydev Vihar to Nandankanan corridor in Bhubaneswar into a six-lane main carriageway flanked by two-lane service roads on either side.
To ensure seamless field implementation, superintending engineers across all divisions have been directed to align local construction schedules with the central roadmap. The strategy also integrates modern digital monitoring utilities to track project milestones, optimize budget distribution, and resolve issues related to land acquisition or utility relocation.
Long-term durability is further reinforced by updates to the Odisha State Road Policy. The revised standards mandate dedicated underground utility corridors to eliminate damaging road cuts during pipe or cable installations, while promoting eco-friendly techniques such as incorporating recycled materials into asphalt mixes. Combined with scheduled seasonal maintenance inspections before, during, and after the monsoon period, the department aims to build a resilient road system capable of withstanding heavy weather conditions.