Road Infrastructure / Dharmendra Pradhan Writes to Nitin Gadkari for NH‑55 Expansion, Flyover in Sambalpur

New Delhi/Sambalpur, Oct 6: Sambalpur MP and former Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has written to Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, seeking urgent intervention for the expansion and modernization of key national highways in western Odisha.

In his letter, Pradhan highlighted the growing industrial, mining, and commercial activity in the Sambalpur‑Anugola‑Kataka corridor, stressing the need to upgrade the existing four‑lane NH‑55 to a six‑lane highway with two‑lane service roads on both sides.

He argued that such an expansion would ease traffic congestion, improve connectivity, and significantly reduce accidents.

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Pradhan also requested administrative and financial approval for four new underpasses at Jindal Road, Jarapada, Jerang, and Charmal along the Anugola‑Sambalpur section of NH‑55.

With heavy movement of mineral and commercial vehicles in this stretch, he warned that pedestrians and local commuters face increasing risks of accidents. The underpasses, he said, would provide safe passage and enhance road safety.

Additionally, Pradhan drew attention to the Sambalpur City Railway Station Square on NH‑53, which has been identified as a potential “black spot” due to the daily movement of large numbers of rail passengers across the highway.

He urged the ministry to approve and initiate construction of a flyover at this location to ensure safe and smooth traffic flow.

Pradhan emphasized that these projects are not just about infrastructure but about accelerating Odisha’s economic growth. “If these proposals are implemented on priority, Odisha’s industrial and commercial development will gain further momentum,” he noted.

The proposals, if approved, would transform western Odisha’s connectivity, reduce traffic bottlenecks, and improve safety for thousands of commuters.