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Bhubaneswar, Nov 7 (IANS) Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari on Friday inaugurated the 84th annual session of the Indian Roads Congress (IRC) in Bhubaneswar and announced an additional Rs 1,000 crore road development package for Odisha.
Speaking to media persons, Nitin Gadkari said, “The funds approved for Odisha will be provided directly to the state government. We have already approved several road projects in the state, and an additional Rs 1,000 crore has been allocated.”
He said the three already approved road packages were being expedited, and the Gopalpur-Puri coastal road project, which faced delays due to environmental clearance, would resume soon after necessary modifications.
Assuring the Centre’s full cooperation in developing low-maintenance, high-quality roads for the state, Union Minister Gadkari said, “Odisha Minister Prithviraj Harichandan has submitted proposals for five new National Highway projects. I have already given the green signal to those projects.”
The minister also highlighted recent reforms in the detailed project report (DPR) process, saying: “Earlier, DPRs were accepted based on the lowest bids, often compromising quality. Now we have corrected the system – only quality DPRs will be approved, ensuring better and more sustainable infrastructure.”
Addressing the IRC session, Nitin Gadkari said India is rapidly transforming from a fuel-importing to a fuel-exporting country, driven by increased production and adoption of ethanol, methanol, bio-LNG, CNG and green hydrogen.
He stressed the government’s strong commitment towards road safety, focusing on advanced engineering standards, intelligent transportation systems and awareness campaigns to ensure safer and more efficient mobility.
Underscoring the vital role of road engineers, the Minister said that their accuracy and innovation is the key to preparing accurate DPRs and developing hassle-free, safety-assured highways.
He further said that the use of bio-bitumen and recycled plastic waste in highway construction is enhancing durability, sustainability and cost efficiency while supporting the country’s eco-friendly infrastructure goals.
Reiterating the government’s vision, Union Minister Gadkari said the mission is to create world-class infrastructure based on innovation and sustainable mobility solutions. This transformative approach will create massive employment opportunities, strengthen the basic skills ecosystem and lead India towards a self-reliant and resilient future, he said.
–IANS
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