BJP MPs raise concerns over slow pace of infrastructure projects in Odisha

Three BJP Lok Sabha MPs in Odisha have expressed worry over the sluggish progress of infrastructure projects in their constituencies and the substandard quality of construction, placing the Majhi administration in a difficult situation. In separate letters to Odisha Chief Minister and Works Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan, they pointed out slow-moving projects and called for his intervention.

Pradeep Kumar Panigrahy, Berhampur MP, was particularly critical of the Gate Bazar flyover construction in Berhampur, drawing parallels to past Biju Janata Dal projects marred by poor construction. He cited concerns over the quality of raw materials used, delays causing traffic bottlenecks, dust pollution, and business losses for locals.

The MP also feared the flyover could follow a similar tragic fate to the Bomikhal flyover collapse in Bhubaneswar due to negligence. Balabhadra Majhi, Lok Sabha MP from Nabrangpur, urged urgent action over the delayed construction of the Nabarangpur bypass road, noting only 10% progress after 21 months. Sangeeta Kumari Singh Deo, MP for Bolangir, expressed concerns over the Odisha Bridge and Construction Corporation Limited's (OBCC) performance in widening a road in Subarnapur district.

The MP requested a reassessment of the project, suggesting a transfer of responsibility to the Roads and Building Division for better oversight. Earlier, Kantabanji MLA Laxman Bag had written to the CM, criticizing the disregard for welfare projects in his constituency. BJP leaders dismissed the MPs' letters as routine, but political observers argued that the development slowdown would tarnish the present government's image, as citizens compared the current pace unfavorably with the previous Naveen Patnaik administration's achievements.