Union Minister Nitin Gadkari embarked on a campaign trail in Puri Lok Sabha and Brahmagiri assembly segments, unveiling ambitious plans for infrastructural development in Odisha. Among the key announcements, he revealed the decision to establish an airport in Paradip with a substantial investment of Rs 200 crore. Furthermore, he pledged to kickstart work on the 111-km 6-lane Bhubaneswar ring road, with an estimated cost of Rs 6,500 crore, commencing in October. Addressing a gathering at an election meeting in Krushnaprasad, situated on the banks of Chilika Lake in Puri district, Gadkari also committed to constructing a road from Tangi to Digha. He highlighted the transportation challenges stemming from the geographical features of Chilika Lake and the wetland, stressing the need for improved connectivity between Gopalpur and Satpada. Gadkari announced plans for the construction of a road between NH-516 A and NH-316 A and instructed authorities to prepare a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the same. While soliciting support for BJP candidates Sambit Patra for the Puri Lok Sabha seat and Upasana Mohapatra for the Brahmagiri assembly segment, Gadkari underscored the symbiotic relationship between public welfare initiatives and electoral support. Recognizing Odisha's vast coastline as a significant asset, Gadkari pledged projects aimed at enhancing fishery production and enabling local fishermen to increase their earnings in dollars. He emphasized the transformative impact of the Bhubaneswar ring road in reducing travel time for residents of Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, and Khurda. In addition to these initiatives, Gadkari revealed plans to commence construction on the proposed 35-km four-lane Greenfield ring road in Sambalpur, with an estimated cost of Rs 1,333 crore, also scheduled to begin in October. This strategic move aims to address traffic congestion between Rourkela and Cuttack, ensuring smoother transportation links in the region. Prior to the election meeting, Gadkari paid a visit to the revered Shree Jagannath Temple to offer prayers, reflecting the cultural and spiritual significance of the region in the political landscape.