The Central government has approved a highway upgradation project worth ₹447.11 crore in Odisha, aimed at improving interstate connectivity, road safety and logistics efficiency across key districts, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari said in a statement on X on Saturday (4 April).
Gadkari said the project will cover 103.52 Km on the Kurumpuri-Raj Khariar stretch across National Highway-353 and National Highway-59 in Nuapada and Balangir districts.
“In Odisha, we have approved ₹447.11 crore for the upgradation of the Kurumpuri-Raj Khariar section, covering a total length of 103.52 km across NH-353 and NH-59 in Nuapada and Balangir districts,” Gadkari said.
The stretch forms part of a key interstate corridor linking the Raipur-Mahasamund region of Chhattisgarh with Odisha, with onward connectivity towards Berhampur and Gopalpur Port, strengthening regional freight movement and access to coastal infrastructure.
Read also : India announces 3-month cost escalation relief for National Highway projects amid rising input prices
“NH-353 and NH-59 together form a vital interstate corridor connecting the Raipur-Mahasamund region of Chhattisgarh with Odisha, extending further towards Berhampur and Gopalpur Port,” he said.
The project is expected to improve movement of both passenger and freight traffic across Nuapada, Balangir, Kalahandi, Kandhamal and Ganjam districts, supporting regional mobility and economic activity.
“This project will significantly strengthen regional and interstate connectivity, ensuring smoother and more efficient movement of both passenger and freight traffic,” Gadkari said.
The upgradation includes rectification of black spots and provision of paved shoulders, aimed at improving road safety, particularly for two-wheelers which constitute a significant share of traffic in the region.
“The corridor improvement-through rectification of black spots and provision of paved shoulders-will enhance road safety, particularly for two-wheelers,” he added.
The improved corridor is also expected to enhance access to key tourist destinations such as Daringbadi, the Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary and nearby hill regions, supporting tourism and local economic development.
Read also : 8600 km national highways built till third week of March against 10,000 km target for FY2025-26
