Bhubaneswar, May 26: Odisha’s transport infrastructure is poised for a major upgrade with plans to widen two key national highway stretches into six-lane controlled-access corridors, aimed at easing congestion, improving safety, and strengthening regional connectivity.
The proposed developments include the NH-316 corridor between Puri and Bhubaneswar, as well as a crucial stretch of NH-16 from Tangi to Ichchapuram, both of which serve as vital routes for passenger travel and freight movement across the state.
The project proposals received a positive response following discussions between Odisha Works Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan and Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari in New Delhi. Officials indicated that necessary procedural steps for implementation are expected to be initiated shortly.
The Puri–Bhubaneswar stretch of NH-316 is planned to be upgraded into a six-lane controlled-access highway with service roads to help manage heavy traffic between the state capital and the major pilgrimage destination of Puri.
In parallel, the Tangi–Berhampur–Ichchapuram section of NH-16 is also proposed for six-laning, with supporting service roads to improve traffic flow, reduce travel time, and enhance road safety along this high-density corridor.
The state government has additionally requested approval for upgrading the Puri–Brahmagiri–Satapada road into a four-lane highway to support rising tourist inflow and local mobility in the coastal belt.
Further, urban infrastructure improvements are also being considered in Bhubaneswar, including widening of the Palasuni–Khandagiri–Tamando service road stretch into a higher-capacity corridor to address growing traffic pressure in the city.
Officials said the planned highway expansion is expected to significantly improve logistics efficiency, strengthen inter-city connectivity, boost tourism, and support overall economic activity across Odisha.
