Pradhan lays foundation of three NH projects in Odisha

Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Thursday laid foundation stone for three projects of National Highway Authority of India (NHAI).

The three projects of 119.5-km length will be constructed with an investment of Rs 2,067.5 crore.

The projects include 56.77-km long six laning of Bhubaneswar-Tangi (Rs 806.11 crore), six laning of 62.64-km long Bhadrak-Balasore section of NH-5 (Rs 999 crore) and construction of three Vehicular Under-Passes (VUPs) at Balikuda, Sikharpur and Badachana on Bhubaneswar-Chandikhole section of NH-5 at a cost of Rs 1,000 crore.

While addressing the event, he also accused the Odisha government of creating hurdles in the implementation of developmental projects.

"The Odisha State government has been creating hurdles in the implementation of several developmental and welfare schemes in the state. I have urged the Odisha government to cooperate in the completion of the projects for the larger interests of Odisha," said Pradhan.

"The projects will give a boost to State's economy, generate employment opportunities and help improve the socio-economic condition of the people. With the Golden Quadrilateral former Prime Minister late Atal ji gave four-lane roads and now Prime Minister Narendra Modi developing them into 6 lane," said Dharmendra Pradhan.

"The National Highways will also provide better interstate connectivity between West Bengal, Odisha and Andhra Pradesh. The Narendra Modi government has been taking steps for growth and progress of Odisha including the development of NH's and Coastal Highway for better connectivity," he added.