Orissa CM discusses road projects with Baalu

Orissa Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik called on the Union Minister of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways, T.R. Baalu, here today and discussed progress of ongoing road projects in the State.

New Delhi, Oct.18 : Orissa Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik called on the Union Minister of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways, T.R. Baalu, here today and discussed progress of ongoing road projects in the State.

Baalu told Patnaik that a technical sanction of Rs. 95 crore had been cleared by Central Government for the upgrading of National Highway 215 which links Panikoili to Rajamunda.

It may be recalled that this 269 kms stretch of road has been included under the National Highway Development Project Phase III and preparation of the Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for four-laning upgradation by the National Highway Authority of India is under way.

Meanwhile, in order to improve the deteriorating condition of the National Highways in Orissa, the Ministry has said that it would allocate an additional sum of Rs 45 crore.

Baalu further told Patnaik that the menace of overloaded trucks had taken its toll on NH 215. He urged the State Government to take immediate measures to control the plying of over-loaded vehicles on the highway.

Baalu urged the State Government to organize a meeting with all the stakeholders in which Union Shipping and Road Transport and Highways Secretaries should also participate within a fortnight for finalizing the modalities for the strengthening of National Highway 215.

Regarding the Vijayawada - Ranchi Road, Baalu told Patnaik that the Government of Orissa will have to expedite the finalization of the Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for remaining 600 km of this route in Orissa.

The Minister said that he required a detailed presentation on this project as it comprises of National Highways, State Highways and village roads.

Regarding road connectivity to the Paradip Port (NH 5A), Baalu told Patnaik that land acquisition for the NHDP in general and Paradip Port in particular is required to be expedited by the State Goverment.

He also emphasized for immediate identification of alternate service roads and parking places for easing the traffic congestion near the Port area.

ANI