Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Saturday expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari for approving ₹447.11 crore for the upgradation of a crucial National Highway stretch in the state.
In a statement issued on behalf of the people of Odisha, the Chief Minister said the sanctioned project would strengthen a key interstate corridor and significantly improve connectivity across several districts.
The project involves the upgradation of a 103.52-km stretch of the Kurumpuri–Raj Khariar section spanning NH-353 and NH-59 in Nuapada and Balangir districts. The corridor links the Raipur–Mahasamund region of Chhattisgarh with Odisha and extends further to Berhampur and Gopalpur Port, making it a vital route for both passenger and freight movement.
Highlighting the broader impact, Majhi said the project would enhance road safety, enable smoother traffic flow, and unlock tourism potential in destinations such as Daringbadi and Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary.
“This transformative project will accelerate regional development and bring lasting prosperity to the people of Odisha,” he said in a post on X.
In a separate post, Gadkari said the upgradation would benefit multiple districts, including Nuapada, Balangir, Kalahandi, Kandhamal, and Ganjam. He noted that the work would include rectification of accident-prone black spots and provision of paved shoulders, aimed at improving commuter safety, particularly for two-wheeler riders.
The improved highway is expected to facilitate efficient movement of goods and passengers, enhance access to hilly and remote areas, and boost tourism and economic activity in the region.
Officials indicated that the project would provide a major infrastructure push to southern and western Odisha—regions that have long faced connectivity challenges. Once completed, it is likely to reduce travel time, cut logistics costs, and strengthen trade links between Odisha and neighbouring Chhattisgarh.
The construction phase is also expected to generate employment opportunities and stimulate local economic growth.
