Bhubaneswar, 5 August 2023 – Union Minister for Home Affairs and Cooperation Amit Shah, along with Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, inaugurated the 4-laning of the Kamakhya Nagar-Duburi Section of NH-53, connecting the coal belt of Talcher to the steel hub in Kalinga Nagar, Jajpur. The 51 KM stretch has been completed at a cost of Rs 761 Crore.
Additionally, the foundation stone was laid for the widening and strengthening of Moter-Banner Road via Ladugaon in Kalahandi.
During the event, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik highlighted Odisha’s transformation story and emphasized the importance of connectivity for progress and empowerment. He praised the Gurupriya bridge’s impact on the development of the Malkangiri area and the Biju Express Way’s potential to accelerate growth in the region.
The Chief Minister shared that Odisha plans to improve 6500 Km of roads and construct around 300 bridges this year, offering a significant boost to growth and opportunities. He also expressed gratitude for the support from the Government of India in the state’s development agenda.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah, as the Chief Guest, emphasized the crucial role of National Highways in the nation’s development. He commended Odisha’s disaster management model, which has led to almost zero casualties and has contributed to national disaster management efforts. Amit Shah appreciated the state government’s efforts in reducing the naxal menace in Odisha.
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan highlighted the focused approach of the Union Government towards eastern states, including Odisha, under the Prime Minister’s Purbodaya vision.
The event also saw State Works Minister Prafulla Mallick outlining the state’s infrastructure projects in the last 23 years, and Chief Secretary PK Jena giving the welcome address. NHAI member proposed the vote of thanks.
