Bhubaneswar, Nov 7 (NationPress) Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari inaugurated the 84th Annual Session of the Indian Roads Congress (IRC) in Bhubaneswar on Friday and declared an additional Rs 1,000 crore road development package for Odisha.

During his address, Nitin Gadkari stated: "The approved funds for Odisha will be channeled directly to the State Government. We have already given the green light to several road projects within the state, and an extra Rs 1,000 crore has been earmarked for this initiative."

He further mentioned that three previously sanctioned road packages are being fast-tracked, and the Gopalpur–Puri coastal road project, which had been stalled due to environmental clearance issues, will soon recommence following necessary adjustments.

Odisha Minister Prithviraj Harichandan has submitted proposals for five new national highway projects, which have already received the Union Minister's approval, ensuring the Centre's unwavering support in constructing low-maintenance, high-quality roads for the state.

He emphasized recent reforms in the Detailed Project Report (DPR) process, stating: "Previously, DPRs were approved based on the lowest bids, often at the expense of quality. We have rectified this system—only quality DPRs will now be approved to guarantee better and more durable infrastructure."

While addressing the IRC session, Nitin Gadkari remarked that India is gradually evolving from a fuel-importing to a fuel-exporting country, propelled by increased production and utilization of ethanol, methanol, bio-LNG, CNG, and green hydrogen.

He reiterated the government's strong commitment to road safety, focusing on advanced engineering standards, intelligent transport systems, and awareness initiatives aimed at ensuring safer and more efficient mobility.

Highlighting the critical role of road engineers, the Minister stated their precision and innovation are crucial in preparing accurate DPRs and developing hassle-free, safety-assured highways.

He also pointed out that the incorporation of bio-bitumen and recycled plastic waste in highway construction is improving durability, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness, while supporting the nation's eco-friendly infrastructure objectives.

Reiterating the government's vision, Union Minister Gadkari asserted that the mission is to construct world-class infrastructure grounded in innovation and sustainable mobility solutions. This transformative strategy, he added, will create extensive employment opportunities, bolster the infra-skill ecosystem, and propel India towards a self-sufficient and resilient future.