Odisha Opens 68 Highway Amenity Centres Across 25 Districts

The Odisha Government has made 68 Way-Side Amenity Centres operational across 25 districts along major National and State Highways, investing around ₹25 crore to improve traveller facilities and promote women’s entrepreneurship.

Renovated by the Tourism Department, the centres are operated by women Self-Help Groups (SHGs), creating new income opportunities. Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida recently interacted with the women entrepreneurs and encouraged them to serve hygienic traditional Odia food, promote local products and provide quality hospitality.

All centres offer free clean toilets, drinking water and resting facilities. CCTV cameras have been installed for security, while generators and inverters ensure uninterrupted power supply. Visitors only need to pay for food and beverages.

For smooth operations, 544 contractual workers have been deployed through CFMS agencies, including 204 security guards, 272 sanitation workers and 68 maintenance staff.

The initiative aims to strengthen women’s financial independence, boost rural livelihoods and showcase Odisha’s food culture and hospitality to highway travellers.