The Union Cabinet has approved a Rs 1,526 crore project to upgrade National Highway-326 in Odisha. The project will widen and strengthen a 243 km stretch through Gajapati, Rayagada, and Koraput districts, improving connectivity and economic activity. The upgrade aims to address poor road geometry and safety issues, facilitating smoother traffic flow, reducing travel time and costs, and enhancing freight movement. This development is expected to significantly contribute to the overall growth of southern Odisha's tribal and aspirational regions.