Odisha to Build 500 Km Disaster-Proof Roads by 2030

12 May 2025 CW Team

The Odisha Cabinet has approved Rs 10 billion to construct 500 kilometres of disaster-resilient roads in regions vulnerable to floods and cyclones. Sanctioned under the ‘Mukhya Mantri Sadak Yojana’, the five-year programme (2025–2030) aims to guarantee continuous connectivity during natural disasters.

According to a press release from the Government of Odisha, the planned road features include elevated embankments above flood levels, reinforced protection walls, improved drainage systems, and high-level bridges replacing previously submersible ones.

Designed to function as critical lifelines, these roads will allow rapid access for rescue teams and timely delivery of relief materials during emergencies, particularly during cyclones which frequently disrupt the state.

In a separate rural initiative, the Cabinet approved Rs 4.26 billion to upgrade roads in 142 assembly constituencies over three years. This scheme focuses on enhancing access to schools, healthcare centres, and markets by repairing neglected roads and strengthening infrastructure in remote areas.

The disaster-resilient roads will incorporate erosion-resistant stone pitching, catchwater drains along hillsides, and sufficient cross-drainage systems to manage floodwater. These features aim to lower maintenance costs and improve the durability of road networks in high-risk zones.

Work on both road projects is set to begin in the 2025–26 financial year, with rural road upgrades expected to conclude by 2026–27. The state government highlighted the importance of working with local bodies to prioritise critical routes and ensure effective implementation.

In another key decision, the Cabinet introduced a 50 per cent fare reduction for women, transgender individuals, students, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities on state-run buses. This initiative, under the ‘Mukhyamantri Bus Seba’, aims to promote inclusive and affordable public transport across the state.

Infrastructure Transport

16 Sep 2025

Metro Line 2B Phase 1 to Boost Realty in Mumbai’s Eastern Suburbs

Mumbai’s real estate sector is set for a major boost as Phase 1 of Metro Line 2B, between Mandale and Diamond Garden, nears completion. The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has confirmed that mandatory rectifications are done, and inspections by the Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety (CMRS) have been carried out. The 5.39-km stretch with five stations forms part of the larger DN Nagar–Mandale corridor, designed to ease congestion and improve east–west connectivity. Passenger operations are expected by December 2025, with the full line slated for 2027. ..

WattPower wins Best Inverter award at Global Solar Expo 2025

WattPower, a leading renewable energy solutions provider, has won the award for “Best Inverter in the Utility Segment” at the Global Solar Expo 2025. The recognition underscores the company’s commitment to delivering reliable, high-performance and future-ready solar solutions for large-scale projects. At the forefront of utility-scale solar, WattPower manufactures advanced string inverters that directly feed power into the Indian grid. With robust technology, high-quality components and comprehensive product lifecycle support, its solutions stand among the most sophisticated in the ..

Awfis delivers 67,000 sq. ft. innovation hub for eBay in Bengaluru

Awfis Space Solutions, India’s largest flexible workspace provider and the first publicly listed workspace solutions platform, has partnered with eBay to establish a 67,000 sq. ft. innovation hub at Embassy Tech Village, Bengaluru. The mandate covers design, build and management of the new office, which will act as a strategic hub supporting diverse functions and accelerating eBay’s AI-first commerce strategy. The centre will focus on artificial intelligence, engineering, product development and applied research, strengthening eBay’s growth in India. Embassy Tech Village, North Beng..