Odisha Targets Construction of Over 75,000 Rural Roads by 2027: Rabi Narayan Naik

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has set an ambitious target to construct more than 75,000 rural roads by 2027 to improve connectivity in villages with a population of over 150, Rural Development Minister Rabi Narayan Naik said on Tuesday.

Addressing officials during a review meeting, Naik directed the department to ensure 100 per cent utilisation of the allocated budget within the next three months. He said the Rural Development Department has reviewed the current expenditure status and instructed officials to expedite implementation of ongoing and proposed projects.

“The government aims to construct over 75,000 rural roads by 2027, of which more than 30,000 have already been completed. All remaining works will be finished within the stipulated timeframe,” the minister said.

Criticising the previous government, Naik alleged that 92 bridges were left incomplete due to the absence of approach roads and pending land acquisition. He added that the present BJP government has already completed land acquisition for 50 such bridges and is working to complete the remaining ones within the next three months.

The minister said the state government remains committed to strengthening rural infrastructure and ensuring better road connectivity across Odisha.