Bhubaneswar, Nov 4 (UDN): The proposed expansion of the Puri-Bhubaneswar National Highway into a six-lane corridor has taken its first step, with soil testing underway at key locations along the route. The ambitious infrastructure project aims to ease chronic traffic congestion and reduce travel time between the two cities to approximately 45 minutes.
Representational Image
Geo Design & Research (P) Ltd. has begun preliminary soil investigations at Pattanikiya, Satsankha and Chandanpur to assess ground conditions ahead of the proposed highway development.
The project is expected to bring major relief to thousands of commuters, pilgrims and tourists travelling between Bhubaneswar and Puri, particularly during peak tourist seasons, weekends and major religious festivals. Traffic congestion on the route often leads to prolonged delays, especially during Rath Yatra and Suna Besha, when lakhs of devotees visit the holy town.
Key congestion points, including Pipili Toll Gate, Satsankha market and Malatipatpur, have frequently witnessed traffic bottlenecks, sometimes leaving motorists stranded for hours.
According to the Puri District Collector, the proposed road expansion may extend beyond six lanes to eight lanes at selected stretches, depending on traffic requirements and local conditions. The project is also expected to incorporate a range of public amenities to improve the travel experience.
Plans include roadside facilities, public toilets and other essential conveniences for pilgrims and tourists. Two elevators have also been proposed at certain locations as part of the infrastructure development.
Local Culture to Get a Boost
Beyond improving road connectivity, the project is expected to provide opportunities to promote Odisha’s traditional arts and crafts. Proposed wayside facilities will include spaces to showcase and market local products, particularly Pipili’s renowned Chandua (appliqué work).
Such facilities could give tourists greater exposure to the region’s cultural heritage while creating additional opportunities for local artisans and businesses.
Focus on Safety and Regional Development
The highway expansion is also expected to improve road safety by providing wider carriageways and better traffic management infrastructure, helping address accident-prone stretches along the existing route.
The proposed development assumes particular importance following the massive crowds witnessed during recent Rath Yatra celebrations, which once again highlighted the limitations of the existing road infrastructure.
Beyond strengthening the Bhubaneswar-Puri connection, the project is expected to support the broader vision of the proposed Bhubaneswar-Cuttack-Puri-Paradip Metropolitan Region. Improved connectivity could also contribute to tourism, trade and economic activities linked to Puri’s emerging blue economy.
With preliminary soil investigations now underway, the project has entered an important preparatory phase. If implemented as envisaged, the upgraded highway could significantly transform travel between Odisha’s capital city and its most prominent pilgrimage and tourism destination, making the journey faster, safer and more convenient.
