Union Home Minister Amit Shah marked a momentous occasion in Odisha as he inaugurated the four-laning of the Kamakhyanagar-Duburi section of NH-53. The event took place in the presence of Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Shah also laid the foundation stone for another highway project, from Moter to Banner via Ludugaon Road, in the Kalahandi district.
The Kamakhyanagar-Duburi section, spanning 51 km, was constructed at a cost of Rs 761 crore. It is a significant project that will connect the mineral-rich districts of Angul and Dhenkanal with other parts of Odisha and the country, enhancing connectivity and facilitating economic growth in the region. The project includes two major bridges, 10 minor bridges, seven vehicle underpasses, two animal underpasses, and a 1.73 km-long bypass road.
Addressing the importance of national highways for the country’s development, Amit Shah praised the Modi government’s efforts in expanding and improving the national highway network. He highlighted that the daily construction of national highways in India increased from 12 km in 2014-15 to 29 km in 2020-22, showcasing the government’s commitment to infrastructure development.
Shah assured that the Modi government is fully dedicated to Odisha’s development, mentioning the significant increase in funding provided to the state over the years. He emphasized the decline in left-wing extremism activities in the country, including Odisha, due to effective measures taken by the government.
Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik emphasized the importance of connectivity for progress and empowerment. He thanked the Government of India for its support to Odisha’s development agenda and expressed the state’s belief in cooperative federalism.
Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan highlighted the substantial increase in funding provided by the Modi government to Odisha compared to the previous administration’s allocations. This investment reflects the government’s focus on accelerating the state’s development.
During his visit to Odisha, Amit Shah also held crucial meetings with state BJP leaders to strategize for the upcoming 2024 general and Assembly elections. The discussions focused on furthering the party’s agenda for the state’s growth and progress.
The inauguration of the Kamakhyanagar-Duburi section and the announcement of the new highway project demonstrate the government’s commitment to improving infrastructure and connectivity in Odisha, bolstering its development trajectory.
