This study delineates a research-driven Road Safety Audit (RSA) of a 23.396 km segment of the Major District Road (MDR) in Odisha, specifically focusing on the Bhadrak Ichhapur Basudevpur road corridor at the Operation & Maintenance (O&M) phase. The selection of this corridor was deliberate, taking into account its significant crash incidence, intricate road geometry, and the existence of vulnerable user demographics within mixed traffic scenarios, which exemplify the broader challenges encountered on highways within Indian states. The research employs the established RSA methodology as detailed in IRC:SP: 88-2019, augmented with systematic crash data analysis, geo-tagged video documentation, and a prioritization of risk factors based on severity. Critical safety shortcomings were recognized in areas such as sight distance, intersection configuration, roadside hazard mitigation, signage, and pavement markings. Context-sensitive and economically viable remedial strategies were recommended in accordance with IRC standards. The current study advances the ongoing dialogue regarding proactive road safety through the integration of field-based audits with empirical crash data, while also emphasizing methodological insights for the evaluation of existing roadways. The results present practical strategies not only for MDR but also for comparable high-risk corridors throughout India and other nations in the developing world. The limitations concerning data availability and the feasibility of implementation are recognized, and recommendations for future research encompass post-implementation assessments and risk modeling.