THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU
BHUBANESWAR, FEBRUARY 15, 2026
“Robust air and road connectivity is critical to unlocking regional growth,
tourism potential and access to essential services,” said Odisha Commerce &
Transport Department Principal Secretary N.B.S. Rajput while undertaking an
extensive field visit to western and southern Odisha on Sunday to review key
aviation and public transport infrastructure.
Soon after assuming charge, Rajput inspected Utkela Airport, assessing
operational readiness, passenger facilities, runway infrastructure and future
expansion prospects under regional connectivity initiatives. He reviewed
ongoing development works and stressed seamless coordination among executing
agencies to strengthen air links and catalyse economic activity in the KBK
region.
At Jeypore Airport, he examined infrastructure augmentation plans, safety
protocols and passenger amenities, interacting with airport authorities and
local stakeholders. He underscored the need for time-bound implementation and
quality execution to ensure reliable and affordable air services for the
region.
Extending the review to surface transport, the Principal Secretary
visited the OSRTC depot and bus stand at Bhawanipatna and inspected facilities
at Nabarangpur. The focus remained on commuter convenience, cleanliness,
digital ticketing systems, fleet operations and depot modernisation. Officials
were directed to enhance passenger amenities, streamline scheduling and
strengthen last-mile connectivity to interior blocks.
Rajput also reviewed the revenue collection position in Kalahandi, Nabarangpur and Koraput districts, calling for stronger enforcement, improved compliance mechanisms and greater use of digital systems to ensure transparency and sustained growth in revenue realisation.
Reiterating the Government’s commitment to integrated multi-modal transport planning, he emphasised timely project execution and citizen-centric service delivery. Senior departmental and district officials accompanied him during the inspection.
