Bhubaneswar: Soil testing has begun at key locations along the Puri-Bhubaneswar National Highway as part of the proposed project to upgrade the busy corridor into a six-lane road, aimed at easing traffic congestion and reducing travel time between the two cities to around 45 minutes.
Geo Design & Research (P) Ltd. is conducting soil tests at Pattanikiya, Satsankha and Chandanpur along the highway as a preliminary step towards the proposed expansion.
The project is expected to provide significant relief to commuters, devotees and tourists who frequently face prolonged traffic snarls on the route, particularly during major religious occasions such as Rath Yatra and Suna Besha, as well as on weekends when large numbers of devotees visit Puri for the darshan of Lord Jagannath.
Traffic congestion around Pipili Toll Gate, Satsankha market and Malatipatpur has often resulted in hours-long delays, causing considerable inconvenience to road users.
According to the Puri District Collector, the proposed highway expansion could be eight lanes at certain stretches, depending on requirements. The project will also incorporate various public amenities, including roadside facilities, toilets and other conveniences for pilgrims and tourists. Two elevators are also proposed at certain locations.
The plan also envisages wayside facilities and provisions to showcase local products and traditional crafts, including Pipili’s famous Chandua (appliqué work), offering visitors an opportunity to experience the region’s cultural heritage.
Apart from reducing travel time and easing congestion, the wider road is expected to improve road safety and help address the problem of frequent accidents along the highway.
The project assumes added significance in view of the massive crowds witnessed during the last Rath Yatra and is expected to strengthen connectivity between Bhubaneswar and Puri. It is also seen as an important infrastructure initiative for the proposed Bhubaneswar-Kataka-Puri-Paradip Metropolitan Region and the development of Puri’s blue economy.
