A connecting bridge ‘Ekata Setu’ connecting Biju Pattnaik Hockey Stadium, Sector-5 and Ispat Stadium, Sector-6 was inaugurated by Mr. Tarun Misra, ED (HR), RSP on 21st January, 2026 ahead of the Rourkela Half Marathon being organised by SAIL, Rourkela Steel Plant (RSP). Mr. B K Jojo, CGM (TE & Horticulture), Mr. D K Palo, CGM (Mechanical), Mr. T G Kanekar, CGM (TS & CSR), many other Senior Officers and a large number of employees were present on the occasion.
Notably, the 34-metre bridge will provide smooth passage for the participants as well as dignitaries to Ispat Stadium which is the venue of the Mega Sporting Event to be held on 24th January, 2026. The Structural & Fabrication Shop with support from Design Department and Civil Engineering (Services) Department has safely erected the massive structure using in-house resources. Around 12 tons structural have been fabricated in the bridge. The in-house effort has resulted not only in saving substantial cash outflow, but also showcases the technical expertise and collaborative effort of RSP collective.
With more than 5,800 runners from across the country expected to participate in the mega sporting event, elaborate arrangements are being put in place to ensure easy access, seamless movement and smooth conduct of the marathon. Adequate infrastructural facilities and coordinated efforts of various departments are ensuring that the event is conducted in an efficient and well-organised manner. Banners displaying detailed route charts have been installed at strategic locations to inform commuters about road closures and alternate traffic routes.
For the smooth conduct of the event, some major roads of the city will remain temporarily closed from 12:00 midnight of 23rd January (Friday) to 12:00 noon of 24th January (Saturday). During this period, the following routes will remain completely closed to traffic: Sector-6 BSNL Chowk to Ispat Stadium; Ispat Stadium to Sector-4 Madhuban Chowk; Madhuban Chowk to Ambagan Chowk; and Airport to Airport Chowk via Ring Road up to the Estate Office. However, till 6:00 a.m. on 24th January, and thereafter only in cases of medical emergencies, pedestrians will be permitted to cross at DPS Chowk, Sector-7/17 Chowk, Rourkela Club Chowk and Sector-5 Maintenance Booth Chowk. The students who are appearing JEE Main Entrance Examination and have Padmanav College as examination centre can reach the venue by using the road connecting Traffic Tower Chowk –Pantha Nivas- Sector-5 Trainees Hostel (Along with the IG park Boundary). The general public is requested to plan their travel accordingly, use alternate routes during this period and cooperate in making the event a grand success.
