Bhubaneswar: Odisha’s state government is steadfast in its commitment to transforming the state into a developed entity by 2036, with a strong focus on bolstering infrastructure. This was the key message from Minister Works, Law and Excise, Prithviraj Harichandan at a high-level review meeting of Department of Works projects exceeding Rs 50 crore, held today at the Lok Seva Bhawan Convention Hall.
Principal Secretary Works, Shri Sanjay Kumar Singh outlined the deliberations on faster infrasturcture development in the State along with adoption of technology including AI.
Minister Shri Harichandan stressed the paramount importance of quality and timely completion for all projects, ranging from national highways to various roads, bridges, and buildings under the department. He urged departmental officers to embrace modern advancements, including Artificial Intelligence, to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
“We are currently in a good position globally, but we must strive for the number one position,” stated Minister Shri Harichandan. To achieve this, he emphasized the need for regular infrastructure inspections and prompt repair work. He also advised departmental officers and construction companies to proactively address challenges such as land acquisition and forest land issues to ensure project completion within stipulated deadlines.
A significant development at the meeting was the unveiling of the “Bridge Repair Policy,” with the Minister announcing that a “Road Repair Policy” is also in the pipeline.
Principal Secretary Works, Shri Sanjay Kumar Singh, echoed the Minister’s sentiments, urging engineers to move beyond traditional work styles and adopt world-class practices. He highlighted the necessity of integrating with systems like WAMIS (Works and Accounts Management Information System) and OSWAS (Odisha Secretariat Workflow Automation System) to streamline departmental operations.
The review meeting covered a comprehensive list of crucial projects, including the progress of the Berhampur Bypass, Khordha Bypass, Khariar ROB, Matiapada ROB on the Puri-Konark road, Nayagarh Bypass, 4-lane Kesinga-Jaipur Town Bypass ROB, Balangiri Bypass, Titilagarh Bypass, High Level Bridge over Baitarani River, High Level Bridge under construction over Tel River, Kanderpur Balikuda Road, Berhampur Ring Road, Cuttack Ring Road SCB Project, various projects in Puri city, major temple development initiatives like Maa Sarala and Cuttack Chandi Temple, and sports development projects such as the Nayagarh, Balasore, Jharsuguda, and Jajpur Swimming Pools.
While expressing satisfaction with several ongoing projects, Minister Shri Harichandan issued a stern directive to departmental engineers and construction agencies to expedite the completion of delayed projects. Concerns regarding some construction agencies outsourcing project work were raised, with the Minister ordering an immediate investigation and strict action against those found in violation.
The meeting was attended by key officials, including EIC Civil Satyabrat Behera, Special Secretary L. K. Padhi, OBCC Managing Director Sameer Hota, along with senior departmental officers, installation engineers from various zones, and representatives from construction companies.