Bhubaneswar: Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Friday inaugurated the 84th session of the Indian Road Congress (IRC) in Bhubaneswar.
The four-day national meet has brought together around 3,500 delegates, including engineers, scientists, academicians, and administrators from across the country.
Accompanied by Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and members of the IRC, Gadkari formally inaugurated the session by lighting the ceremonial lamp.
Among those present on the occasion were Odisha Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja, IRC President Manoranjan Parida, and World Road Association Vice President Dharmananda Sarangi.
This year’s congress is centred on the theme of sustainable, resilient, and eco-friendly infrastructure—aimed at addressing the challenges of rapid urbanisation, technological advancements, and climate change, officials said.
Speaking at the event, Odisha Works Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan said the state was proud to host the prestigious session for the sixth time, noting that the last edition held in Bhubaneswar was a decade ago.
He added that Odisha’s growing focus on modern, green, and durable road infrastructure aligns with the IRC’s vision of advancing India’s transport ecosystem.
