Bhubaneswar: In a significant push to infrastructure development in western Odisha, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari has approved ₹447.11 crore for the upgradation of the Kurumpuri–Raj Khariar highway stretch.
The 103.52 km-long project, part of National Highway 353 and National Highway 59, is expected to transform connectivity across Nuapada and Balangir districts while generating broader economic benefits across the region.
Strengthening Interstate Connectivity
This కీల (key) corridor links the industrial belt of Raipur–Mahasamund in Chhattisgarh with Odisha’s interior regions, extending further to the strategic Gopalpur Port and the city of Berhampur.
The modernization of this route is aimed at:
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Streamlining freight movement between Chhattisgarh and Odisha’s coastal ports
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Enhancing regional mobility across Nuapada, Balangir, Kalahandi, Kandhamal, and Ganjam districts
Focus on Road Safety
A major component of the project is the elimination of accident-prone “black spots.” Planned interventions include the addition of paved shoulders, a critical safety feature for two-wheeler riders, who form a large share of traffic in the region.
“This corridor improvement will ensure smoother and more efficient movement of both passenger and freight traffic while significantly enhancing road safety,” Gadkari stated.
Boost to Tourism Potential
The upgraded highway is also expected to unlock tourism opportunities in Odisha’s scenic highlands. Improved accessibility will benefit destinations such as:
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Daringbadi, popularly known as the “Kashmir of Odisha”
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Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary, a biodiversity hotspot
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The broader western hill regions, supporting local tourism and small businesses
Driving Regional Development
This infrastructure initiative is seen as a strategic move to bridge developmental gaps in Odisha’s hinterland. By strengthening interstate trade routes, improving safety, and enhancing connectivity, the project is expected to deliver long-term economic and social gains for the region.
-OdishaAge
