NH-326 expansion project falters amid administrative impasse in Odisha; sparks safety concerns

The National Highway-326, also known as the Vijayawada-Ranchi Corridor, is at the centre of growing concern in Odisha due to protracted efforts to expand this critical route. The ambitious road project was started at a cost of Rs 186 crore.

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Despite substantial investment from the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways, the project remains incomplete halfway through the scheduled timeline, with the initial completion set for 2026 now seeming uncertain.

Accusations galore by locals

In the past 18 months, sections between Podamari and Dhaugaon have become accident-prone zones due to half-finished roadwork and frequent traffic bottlenecks. Unfinished road surfaces and exposed metal rods pose serious risks to drivers and commuters, turning what should be a strategic link into a hazardous journey.

Residents living along the national highway, particularly in Ganjam and Gajapati districts, express frustration over the delay. The challenging topography at Taptapani Ghat demands meticulous construction and vegetation clearing, complicating progress.

Despite officials’ assurances of meeting the deadline, the slow progress has cast doubts on future phases, such as the widening from Podamari to Mohana. The persistent congestion plagues unfinished sections, with vehicles often immobilised for extended periods.

Controversy continues as residents question the authorities’ ability to address delays while promising timely project completion. As the NH-326 expansion project hangs in the balance, its completion remains a matter of significant public interest.

“The quality of work is very low. After digging a drain, no subsequent work is being carried out for months. Commuters are often facing accidents. No officials are coming to the spot for supervision,” some residents alleged.

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“Since this is a major work, some amount of faults will be there. We are trying our best to rectify those. The quality of road work is undoubtedly good and I am satisfied,” Digapahandi NHAI deputy executive engineer Narayan Ojha said to OTV.

Reported By: Satyanarayan Padhi