Odisha ups the infra budget: Plans to spend Rs 2.85L in next 5 years

BHUBANESWAR: The Government of Odisha plans to invest Rs 2.85 lakh crore in numerous critical infrastructure projects over the next five years to improve people’s quality of life and contribute to the state’s economic growth. The proposed investment will not only improve rural infrastructure but will also assist the state to achieve its goal of becoming a trillion-dollar economy by 2030. Between 2022-23 and 2026-27, 18 key departments will implement the projects.

The Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water Department will spend Rs 59,949 crore, followed by the Public Works Department at Rs 57,512 crore, the Water Resources Department at Rs 44,233 crore, the Health and Family Welfare Department at Rs 25,264 crore, and the Rural Development Department at Rs 22,400 crore.

According to a senior official, the departments have submitted a list of infrastructure development projects that are being evaluated for viability and long-term consequences. He stated that developing more climate-resilient structures is a top priority. The state government has proposed that Housing Board colonies be established in each district headquarter and that excellent government housing be provided through a general pool at district and block headquarters. Government offices for all ministries will be built at a single location at the district level, allowing residents to obtain public services in one location.

Apart from the Ring Route by-pass road, all infrastructure for the Puri Airport Project will be constructed on time, and urban utilities will be expanded in the newly created area on the outskirts of Bhubaneswar city. Under the State Highway Development Program, the state plans to build 3914 km of roads and 227 bridges, as well as upgrade critical state highways to four-lane standards.

To bring Odisha up to pace with other modern states, a long-term vision plan titled “Higher Education in Odisha, 20 years from now” would be developed. Moving away from coal and iron ore, the Mines Department will investigate granite and marble mining, both of which are abundant in the state, in order to develop granite-based industries.