Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government is giving top priority to high-quality and timely execution of infrastructure projects to accelerate the state’s development, Works Minister Prithviraj Harichandan said on Thursday.
Chairing a high-level review meeting at Lok Seva Bhawan on major construction projects worth over Rs 50 crore under the Works Department, Minister Harichandan emphasized that engineers must ensure every project reflects the uniqueness of Odisha.
“From the Puri Heritage Project, SCB Medical College’s Clinical and Residential Complex, Mahami Gadi Temple Project, to high-level bridges over the Brahmani, Baitarani, and Mahanadi rivers — these flagship initiatives are crucial for the state’s progress,” the Minister said. “Their successful and timely completion will be a significant achievement for both the government and the people of Odisha.”
Harichandan warned that any negligence or delay in these projects would not be tolerated. He made it clear that strict action would be taken against government officials or contracting agencies found responsible for delays or substandard work.
In a strong message, the Minister revealed that the contractor responsible for the SCB Medical College Clinical and Residential Complex has already been warned over delays and has been directed to complete the work within the stipulated time, failing which stricter measures will be enforced.
The meeting reviewed the progress of several important projects including Puri Baseli Sahi Dharmashala, Digabareni and Samanga parking complexes, Ravenshaw Girls’ Hostel, MLA building in Bhubaneswar, Type-IV and Type-II residential complexes, the second bridge over the Brahmani River, Sarala Temple Development Project, Mahima Temple Development Project, Jajpur Sports Complex, and 20 projects under the Odisha Bridge Construction Corporation (OBCC) comprising roads, bridges, and buildings.
Principal Secretary, Works Department, Sanjay Kumar Singh advised departmental officers and engineers to maintain close coordination with other departments and make full use of digital platforms like WAMIS for smooth project implementation.
Senior officials present at the meeting included OBCC Managing Director Anupam Saha, Special Secretary Er. L.K. Padhee, EIC (Civil) Er. Satyabrat Behera, EIC (Design, Planning & Coordination) Er. Sameer Hota, EIC (Roads) Er. Dhyan Chand Nayak, and other Chief Engineers, Superintending Engineers, and representatives from contracting agencies.The government has reiterated its firm commitment to delivering quality infrastructure with transparency and accountability across the state.
