Nitin Gadkari Inaugurates Indian Road Congress In Bhubaneswar, Announces Rs 1000 Cr For Odisha

Bhubaneswar: Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari on Friday inaugurated the 84th session of the Indian Road Congress (IRC) in Bhubaneswar with a call to use innovative methods for road building.

Accompanied by Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, members of the IRC and other dignitaries, Gadkari formally opened the session by lighting the ceremonial lamp at Janata Maidan in the capital city.

Speaking at the event, the Union Minister affirmed the Centre’s commitment to actively assisting Odisha in strengthening its road infrastructure.

Announcing Rs 1,000 crore as a token gift from the Centre for Odisha’s road sector, Gadkari asked the state government to send a proposal for a DRR project. “Please send a proposal and I will approve it,” he said.

Stating that there is no dearth of money for Odisha, the Union Minister said the state government should forward proper proposals for approval, and then facilitate land acquisition and requirements like forest and environment clearances.

Gadkari pointed out that projects worth Rs 11,000 crore of the stateare awaiting these clearances.
“There is no dearth of money. You can send proposals and I will ensure funds. I know how to raise money through innovative model,” he said.

Over 3,500 delegates, including engineers, scientists, academicians, and administrators from across the country, will participate in the four-day-long event. The high-profile event, often described as the ‘Mahakumbh of Roads,’ will continue at Janata Maidan till November 10.

Officials said the annual congress will feature multiple sessions focusing on road transport, highway development, infrastructure technology, and safety measures. Eminent engineers, researchers, and policy experts will present papers and share innovations to shape the future of India’s road network.

The Indian Road Congress serves as a vital platform for exchanging ideas and experiences in road engineering and policy. As Odisha hosts the event for the first time in several years, the session is expected to boost infrastructure collaboration and showcase the state’s growing importance in India’s transport development.