Conversion of Capital to Puri National Highway into Model Stretch Planned

The government has taken a decisive step to transform NH-316, the highway connecting Bhubaneswar and Puri, into Odisha's inaugural model stretch. Usha Padhee, the Transport Secretary, directed the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to establish the necessary infrastructure, marking it as the state's premier model highway.

In a recent meeting with NHAI officials addressing road safety concerns, Padhee urged NHAI to formulate a comprehensive plan for the development of this model stretch and execute it promptly. "The chief general manager of NHAI has agreed that the stretch of road from Bhubaneswar to Puri will be developed into a 'model stretch.' All required infrastructure will be provided," stated Padhee.

NHAI, highlighting its track record of creating model stretches in various states, assured that the designated model stretch would encompass essential safety and aesthetic features. This includes proper road signage, markings, road furniture, safety provisions, impeccable road designs, and well-designed junctions with entry/exit points.

Insiders revealed that the proposed model stretch is poised to integrate advanced features such as CCTV cameras for traffic violation detection, comprehensive illumination, drainage systems, pedestrian walkways, extensive plantation and landscaping, redevelopment of the existing toll plaza at Pipili, user facilities, wayside amenities, and measures to eliminate accident-prone black spots.

Furthermore, the Transport Secretary has urged NHAI to construct foot-over bridges (FOBs) at vulnerable sections along national highways in the state. Responding to this proposal, NHAI officials assured that funds would not pose a constraint for FOB construction and encouraged proposals from district road safety committees for the implementation of FOBs. This initiative reflects a concerted effort to enhance both the safety and overall infrastructure of the designated highway stretch.

ET