The Centre has announced a bureaucratic reshuffle, appointing Krishan Kumar, a 2002-batch IAS officer of the Odisha cadre, as the Managing Director of the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd (NHIDCL). This decision holds significance in light of recent events, particularly the Silkyara Tunnel Collapse, which emphasized the necessity for administrators with disaster management expertise to lead the NHIDCL. Kumar’s appointment comes with a proven track record of effectively managing crises, notably during his tenure as the Ganjam collector when the district faced the brunt of Cyclone Phailin in October 2013. Under his leadership, human casualties were limited to single digits, showcasing the effectiveness of his alert administration.

Krishan Kumar’s career trajectory has seen him take on pivotal roles both at the state and central levels. Prior to his appointment as MD of NHIDCL, he served as Joint Secretary in the Department of Commerce of the Union government, having embarked on central deputation in February 2022. Before this, Kumar held the position of Works Secretary and also served as the Chief Administrator of the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) in Puri, Odisha.

During his tenure in Odisha, Kumar spearheaded the implementation of several critical infrastructure projects. Notable among these was the Rs 3200 crore ABADHA (Augmentation of Basic Amenities and Development of Heritage and Architecture) scheme in Puri, aimed at enhancing essential amenities and preserving heritage sites. Additionally, he played a key role in the Rs 5,000 crore plan to elevate the SCB Medical College to AIIMS-plus standard, underscoring his commitment to advancing healthcare infrastructure in the state.