Bhubaneswar: In a first for Odisha, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has decided to construct a 500-metre-long skywalk connecting Palasuni and Rasulgarh over the busy NH-16 here. The project, estimated at Rs 20 crore, aims to ease pedestrian movement and streamline traffic flow in one of the most congested stretches.NHAI officials said the skywalk will be equipped with modern amenities like proper lighting, multiple exits, and a secure pathway for pedestrians. “We are identifying high traffic density stretches on national highways in Bhubaneswar and other busy places to build foot over bridges and skywalks. Odisha’s first skywalk will come up on the Palasuni-Rasulgarh stretch in the capital,” Veerendra Singh, NHAI’s state regional manager, told TOI.
The proposed skywalk is expected to provide seamless connectivity between the two bustling junctions, which witness heavy vehicular and pedestrian traffic daily. “This skywalk will be of great benefit to ensure pedestrian safety and convenience. It will also help in streamlining traffic flow by reducing jaywalking and random crossings,” Singh said.Palasuni, a densely populated residential hub, is surrounded by key localities such as Mancheswar, Rasulgarh, and Satya Vihar. The highway has also spurred the growth of several commercial centres in the area.City police believe the skywalk will significantly improve road safety. Frequent accidents at Palasuni have long troubled commuters and pedestrians. “Palasuni has a chequered history of both major and minor accidents. We hope the skywalk plan materialises quickly,” a traffic police official said.Local commuters have welcomed the move, noting that the existing foot over bridge (FOB) at Palasuni, inaugurated on March 6, 2025, has already improved pedestrian safety. However, they believe the skywalk will be a step ahead.“A foot over bridge allows us to cross the road at one point, but a skywalk will connect multiple locations. It will save time and reduce risks,” said Akhaya Das, a private company employee, who frequently travels between Palasuni and Rasulgarh.Traffic experts also see the project as a model for future urban infrastructure in Odisha. “With Bhubaneswar expanding rapidly, such projects are essential to balance pedestrian needs with vehicular movement,” said road safety campaigner Jajati Behera.Construction is expected to begin later this year, with NHAI officials assuring that the design will prioritize safety, accessibility, and convenience.
