Bhubaneswar, Oct 8 (UDN): A major infrastructure push aimed at improving road connectivity, easing congestion and strengthening road safety in western Odisha is being proposed, with plans for six-laning the Sambalpur-Cuttack stretch of NH-55, construction of four underpasses and an overbridge near Sambalpur City railway station.
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The proposals have been highlighted by Sambalpur MP Dharmendra Pradhan, who has urged Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari to consider the projects on priority, citing rising traffic and growing industrial and commercial activity along the corridor.
NH-55 Six-Laning Plan
The Sambalpur-Angul-Cuttack corridor is a crucial road link connecting western Odisha with major industrial, commercial and urban centres in the state.
With a steady increase in passenger vehicles, heavy trucks and industrial traffic, the proposal seeks to upgrade the existing four-lane highway to six lanes. The plan also includes two-lane service roads on both sides of the highway to facilitate local traffic and improve access for residents and businesses along the route.
The proposed expansion is expected to improve traffic flow, reduce congestion and enhance the overall efficiency of one of Odisha’s important highway corridors.
Four Underpasses Proposed on NH-55
Road safety concerns along the Angul-Sambalpur section of NH-55 have also been flagged, particularly because of the frequent movement of heavy and mineral-laden vehicles.
To address pedestrian and local traffic safety, four underpasses proposed by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) have been sought for early administrative and financial approval.
The proposed locations are Jindal Road, Jarapada, Jerang and Charmal.
The underpasses are expected to provide safer crossings for local residents while reducing the need for pedestrians and smaller vehicles to directly negotiate busy highway traffic.
Overbridge Proposed Near Sambalpur Railway Station
Traffic congestion around Sambalpur City railway station is another major concern. The railway station area witnesses significant movement of passengers and vehicles, resulting in congestion and safety challenges at the adjoining highway junction.
To address the issue, a proposal has been made for an overbridge at the railway station square. The project is intended to streamline traffic movement and provide safer passage for pedestrians and commuters using the busy junction.
Focus on Western Odisha Connectivity
The proposed projects come at a time when western Odisha is witnessing expanding industrial, mining, commercial and urban activity, placing additional pressure on existing transport infrastructure.
If approved and implemented, the six-laning of NH-55, the four underpasses and the proposed railway station overbridge could significantly improve connectivity between western and coastal Odisha while strengthening road safety and supporting the region’s economic growth.
The proposals now await consideration and necessary approvals from the concerned authorities.