Odisha: Rameshwar–Paradeep Coastal Highway has received approval from the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The project will be developed in Odisha under the Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM) at an estimated cost of ₹8,300.79 crore.
The new highway will cover 163.18 km in two packages and is expected to improve coastal connectivity, reduce travel time, support tourism, strengthen logistics, and boost economic growth across Odisha’s coastal districts.
Key Highlights of Rameshwar–Paradeep Coastal Highway Project
- Project Cost: ₹8,300.79 crore
- Total Length: 163.18 km
- State: Odisha
- Development Model: Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM)
- Approved By: Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA)
- Districts Covered:
- Khurda
- Puri
- Kendrapada
- Jagatsinghpur
- Route: Rameshwar to Paradeep
Rameshwar–Paradeep Coastal Highway Project Structure
The coastal highway will be developed in two packages:
Package 1
- Rameshwar to Konark
- Length: About 79.4 km
- Four-lane access-controlled highway
Package 2
- Konark to Paradeep
- Length: About 80.78 km
- Two-lane highway with paved shoulders
The highway is being designed for speeds of up to 100 kmph, allowing faster and safer movement of passenger and freight vehicles.
Why Rameshwar–Paradeep Coastal Highway Project Is Important
The existing road network along Odisha’s coast faces several challenges:
- Heavy local traffic
- Congestion near tourist areas
- Ribbon development along highways
- Slow freight movement
- Travel delays during peak seasons
The new coastal highway aims to provide a dedicated corridor that will improve long-distance travel efficiency and reduce pressure on existing roads.
Economic Impact of the Project
1. Boost to Tourism
The corridor will improve access to:
- Puri
- Konark
- Satapada
- Chilika region
- Coastal tourism destinations
Faster travel could encourage higher tourist arrivals and support local businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and transport operators.
2. Better Port Connectivity
The project will strengthen connectivity to:
- Paradeep Port
- Industrial zones
- Logistics hubs
This can reduce transportation costs and improve supply chain efficiency for industries operating in Odisha.
3. Support for Coastal Economy
The highway is expected to benefit:
- Fishing communities
- Small businesses
- Agricultural producers
- Industrial clusters
- Special Economic Zones (SEZs)
Improved transportation infrastructure generally attracts new investments and creates employment opportunities.
Strategic Benefits
Disaster Management
Odisha frequently faces cyclones and coastal weather events.
The new highway can help:
- Faster evacuation during emergencies
- Quicker movement of relief materials
- Improved disaster response operations
This makes the project strategically important beyond transportation benefits.
Part of Larger Coastal Connectivity Vision
The Rameshwar–Paradeep section is part of a broader coastal highway vision for eastern India. Earlier plans under the Bharatmala programme envisioned a larger coastal road network along Odisha’s coastline to improve regional connectivity and economic integration.
