Union Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari launched three major highway projects in Odisha, saying it will go long way in ensuring speedy development in the state. The three national highway projects, with a total length 132 km, will cost Rs 2,345 crore. The projects for which the foundation stone were laid include four-laning of 41.7-km Talcher-Kamakhyanagar section of NH 200/23 (new NH 53) at a cost of Rs 795.18 crore, 51.1-km Kamakhyanagar-Duburi section of NH 200 (new NH 53) at a cost of Rs 761.11 crore and 39.4-km Duburi-Chandikhole section of NH 200 (new NH 53) at a cost of Rs 789.23 crore. The new projects will have appropriate structures to reduce traffic congestion and ensure safety of road users.