The Odisha government has approved the construction of a new high-level bridge over the Kathajodi River on the upstream side of the existing Subash Chandra Bose Setu. The structure is intended to provide a direct and improved link between Cuttack and Bhubaneswar and to relieve pressure on existing crossings. The scheme is presented as a strategic connectivity measure for the twin cities.

The State Cabinet has approved the lowest turnkey bid from M/s SPS Construction India Pvt Ltd for the project at Rs 1,588.89 million (Rs 1,588.89 mn), which equates to about Rs 1.58889 bn. The figure excludes GST and corresponds to the amount originally quoted in local denominations. The contract carries a completion timeline of 36 calendar months and will follow a planned schedule to ensure timely delivery.

Authorities indicated the bridge will serve as a major boost to connectivity between the twin cities and help reduce traffic congestion on NH-16, the principal corridor linking Cuttack and Bhubaneswar. The new crossing is expected to streamline vehicular movement and to offer more direct access to Cuttack city from the state capital. Officials also noted that the road from Bhubaneswar Airport to Nandankanan Zoological Park is proposed to be widened into an eight-lane corridor, which will complement the bridge.

Taken together, the bridge and the proposed road widening are intended to improve traffic flow and to support the growing transportation needs of the region. Project managers will be required to coordinate work to minimise disruption during construction and to adhere to the established schedule. The government plans monitoring mechanisms to closely track progress and to ensure the infrastructure delivers intended benefits.