Gadkari Announces Rs 200 Crore Airport Project at Paradip

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari announced ambitious plans for infrastructure development in Odisha during a campaign for BJP candidates in Puri Lok Sabha and Brahmagiri assembly segments. His announcements included a new airport in Paradip with an investment of Rs. 200 crore and the initiation of work on a 111-km 6-lane Bhubaneswar ring road, with an estimated cost of Rs. 6,500 crore, set to begin in October.

Speaking at an election meeting in Krushnaprasad, situated on the banks of Chilika Lake in Puri district, Gadkari also promised to construct a road from Tangi to Digha. This new route would address the current reliance on boats for transportation due to the Chilika lake and wetland causing a missing link between Gopalpur and Satpada. "A road will be constructed between NH-516 A and NH-316 A. Authorities have been instructed to prepare a Detailed Project Report (DPR)," Gadkari said.

The Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, however, appealed to the public for their support, stating, "I would do something for you, and you should do something for me by casting votes in favour of BJP candidate Sambit Patra for the Puri Lok Sabha seat and Upasana Mohapatra for the Brahmagiri assembly segment."

Gadkari emphasized the strategic importance of Odisha's coastline and outlined plans to boost fishery production, which would provide local fishermen with the opportunity to earn in dollars. He highlighted the significance of the Bhubaneswar ring road in reducing commute time for residents of Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, and Khurda.

Further, Gadkari announced that construction will start in October on a proposed 35-km four-lane Greenfield ring road in Sambalpur, costing Rs. 1,333 crore, aimed at easing traffic congestion between Rourkela and Cuttack.

Gadkari's infrastructure announcements are part of a broader strategy to boost connectivity and economic growth in Odisha, with plans for new roads and highways contributing to the region's development. His visit to Shree Jagannath Temple before the campaign meeting added a cultural touch to his itinerary, as he offered prayers ahead of unveiling these significant projects.

ET