June 25th 2024.
The National Highway-316, stretching 60 km from Puri to Bhubaneswar, is set to undergo a major transformation to ensure a smooth and safe journey for the large number of visitors using the road every day. With the much-awaited annual Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath, his elder Lord Balabhadra, and their sister Devi Subhadra, as well as the Suna Besha of the Lords, approaching, the administration is expecting a massive influx of lakhs of people to witness the grand event.
To accommodate this expected surge in traffic, the authorities have planned to make the highway free from any obstructions. This will not only facilitate the smooth flow of traffic but also ensure the safety of the visitors. Officials have revealed that all the intersections and bazaar areas along the highway will be well-lit with high-mast lights, and the electric poles will be relocated at least ten feet away from the road. This measure has been taken as a precautionary step, as it has been observed that many vehicles tend to crash into the roadside power poles, causing fatal injuries and even deaths.
Moreover, in order to monitor the movement of vehicles along the highway, CCTV cameras will be installed at every ten km distance. This is a much-needed step to ensure the safety of the travelers. The authorities have also taken strict action against encroachments along the highway and have launched a massive road safety awareness campaign among all sections of people, including students. The aim is to minimize road accidents and put an end to crimes that take place on the highway.
The District Road Transport officer, Robin Patnaik, has informed the media that the district road safety committee has put forth several proposals to reduce road accidents and prevent crime on the highway. He further added that the speed limits of different vehicles will be monitored, and violators will be fined. Patnaik also mentioned that many suggestions of the District Road Safety Committee are in the final stages of execution. The installation of CCTV cameras has been successfully completed, and this will prove useful in identifying vehicles that exceed the speed limit or catching miscreants who snatch ornaments and handbags from motorcyclists.
In addition to these measures, the lighting of all three bypass roads at Malatipatpur – Sterling Beach Road, Chandanpur, and Pipili bypass – as well as two road over bridges, is currently underway and is expected to be completed before the Rath Yatra. According to Patnaik, this will further enhance the safety of travelers during the grand event. The administration is leaving no stone unturned to ensure a safe and hassle-free experience for the visitors during this auspicious occasion.
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