Odisha Infrastructure Conclave held in Bhubaneswar
Bhubaneswar(20/11/2024): The All-Odisha Contractors Welfare Association (AOCWA), in association with the All-Odisha Contractors Association (AOCA), successfully organized the Odisha Infrastructure Conclave 2024 on Wednesday at Hotel Swosti Premium, Bhubaneswar.
The event brought together policymakers, industry leaders, contractors, and academicians to deliberate on Odisha's infrastructure needs and challenges under the theme, "Building a Stronger Odisha: Empowering Infrastructure for Sustainable Growth." The Conclave was inaugurated by Prithviraj Harichandan, Minister of Works, Law & Excise, in the presence of esteemed dignitaries, including Krushna Chandra Mohapatra, Minister of Housing & Urban Development; Babu Singh, MLA, Ekamra; Jagannath Pradhan, Social Worker; and senior representatives of AOCWA and AOCA, including J.Patra, President; Chinmaya Swain, Vice-President; Dilip Kumar Jena, General Secretary; and Anshul Patel, Joint Secretary. Addressing the gathering, J.Patra, President of AOCWA, highlighted the persistent challenges faced by local contractors under the previous government, including policies that favoured out-of-state firms, stifled local talent, and limited growth opportunities.
He emphasized that the Odisha Infrastructure Conclave 2024 is a transformative platform to bridge the gap between contractors and the government while promoting innovation and sustainability in infrastructure development.
He expressed optimism about the current BJP-led governments commitment to empowering local contractors, ensuring transparency in project allocation, and driving inclusive growth. Adding to this, Prithviraj Harichandan emphasized that contractors and engineers are essential members of the system and a vital part of the family, noting that no work can be accomplished without the involvement of contractors.
Odisha is set to develop key infrastructure projects, including the Grand Ring Road, which will connect the entire state.
This six-lane road, from Motu to Tiring, will reduce travel time across Odisha to just 26 hours, linking all commercial hubs for faster access.
He also noted that the previous challenges in the construction sector have been addressed, with local Odia companies now handling smaller projects, and the government expanding capacity for B and C-class manufacturing companies.
The Odisha government is committed to launching major infrastructure projects to further boost development. Odishas infrastructure development has significant room for improvement.
Despite achieving a GSDP of Rs 7.5 lakh crores in 2022-23, growing at an impressive rate of 8.5%, the state remains ranked 13th among 17 major states in infrastructure.
To move into the top tier, experts emphasized the need to increase capital outlay to at least 40% of the state budget.
Currently, Odisha allocates Rs 51,683 crores, approximately 22.5% of its budget, to infrastructure—a per capita expenditure of Rs11,485. The Conclave focused on addressing these gaps and identified critical areas requiring strategic investment, including: Road Development and Intra-district Connectivity: Strengthening over 75,000 km of roads. Ports and Logistics: Expanding Paradip Port and inland waterways to reduce logistics costs. Smart Cities and Urban Development: Continuing Bhubaneswar's journey as a smart city leader. Renewable Energy: Increasing Odishas share of renewable energy to meet future power demands. Industrial Corridors: Developing hubs like Kalinganagar to drive manufacturing. Irrigation Projects: Enhancing irrigation potential to boost agriculture, benefiting 66% of the population. The event featured expert panel discussions on topics like infrastructure financing, contractor roles, and policy advocacy.
Distinguished speakers outlined innovative strategies to address Odisha's infrastructure challenges while ensuring sustainable growth.
The Conclave celebrated exemplary contributions with awards recognizing individuals and organizations for their innovation and dedication. An open house session enabled stakeholders to share concerns and propose actionable solutions.
Discussions emphasized fostering collaboration, empowering contractors, and prioritizing local expertise to achieve the states ambitious goal of becoming a national leader.
The Odisha Infrastructure Conclave 2024 concluded with a renewed commitment to transparent governance, strategic policy changes, and local contractor empowerment.
It underscored the urgent need to align infrastructure development with Odisha's socio-economic aspirations, ensuring sustainable and inclusive growth for all .
