The Odisha government has announced plans to undertake a survey for the six-laning of National Highway-55, a crucial route linking western and coastal Odisha.

This initiative is part of the state's broader effort to enhance road infrastructure and regional connectivity. The decision was made during a review meeting led by Works Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan. The Minister emphasized the importance of accelerating pre-construction activities and securing necessary clearances for proposed projects. The six-laning of NH-55, which connects Cuttack and Sambalpur, will significantly improve the movement of goods and people, particularly benefiting the industrial and mining sectors in western Odisha. It will also provide better access to ports and urban centers along the coast.

“The state’s overall development cannot be achieved by focusing only on major cities. Strengthening road connectivity across regions is critical to achieving the vision of a developed Odisha by 2036,” Minister Harichandan said. The meeting also reviewed various urban and inter-city road projects, including plans for an outer ring road in Cuttack and upgrades to state highways.