Dharmendra Pradhan Seeks 6-Lane Upgrade for NH-55, Pushes for Key Road Safety Projects in Odisha

In a letter to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Pradhan requested the expansion of the Sambalpur-Angul-Cuttack stretch of National Highway-55 (NH-55) from four lanes to six lanes.

He also proposed the construction of two-lane service roads on both sides of the corridor to accommodate growing traffic and enhance road safety.

The demand comes amid increasing vehicular movement on the highway, which serves as a crucial transportation corridor connecting western and coastal Odisha.

The route is extensively used by passenger vehicles, industrial transporters, mining operators, and commercial freight carriers.

Apart from the highway expansion, Pradhan sought the approval of four underpasses on the Angul-Sambalpur section of NH-55 at Jindal Road, Jarapada, Jeranga, and Charmal.

These underpasses are expected to improve traffic management and reduce accident risks for local residents and commuters.

The Sambalpur MP also emphasised the need for an early sanction of a flyover at Sambalpur City Railway Station Square on NH-53.

The junction witnesses heavy traffic congestion and has been identified as a vulnerable accident-prone zone due to the convergence of highway traffic and railway station commuters.

Highlighting the importance of the proposed projects, Pradhan urged the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and the Ministry to prioritise the initiatives, stating that they would significantly improve transportation efficiency, road safety, industrial logistics, and regional economic growth in Odisha.