BJD presses Centre for faster rollout of rail, highway, aviation projects in southern Odisha

Bhubaneswar, Feb 9 : The Opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD) on Monday renewed its demand for the expeditious execution of key infrastructure projects in southern Odisha, asserting that the region’s development is critical to the overall progress of the state.

In a statement, the party urged the Union Government to prioritise pending and ongoing projects without further delay, underlining that the roadmap for southern Odisha’s growth rests on three core pillars—railways, National Highways and aviation infrastructure.

The BJD stressed that faster implementation of railway and National Highway projects across districts such as Ganjam, Gajapati, Kandhamal, Rayagada, Koraput, Nabarangpur and Malkangiri is the need of the hour to bridge regional imbalances and boost economic activity.

Highlighting concerns in the aviation sector, the party called for the immediate commissioning of the Rangeilunda (Berhampur) Airport. While airports at Jeypore and Malkangiri have already been commissioned, the BJD noted that both continue to suffer from infrequent flight schedules and repeated cancellations, hampering connectivity and public confidence. The party sought urgent corrective measures to ensure reliable air services in the region.

The BJD further proposed exploring and developing smaller airstrips in other southern districts, stating that improved air connectivity could unlock the region’s vast eco-tourism potential and stimulate local economies.

Reiterating that southern Odisha’s growth is central to the state’s inclusive development, the party appealed to the Centre to take a holistic and time-bound approach to infrastructure development in the region.