Chandigarh, Nov 29 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Punjab, Bhagwant Mann, unveiled a monumental initiative on Saturday to kickstart the construction of 44,920 km of roads, with an investment of Rs 16,209 crore, claiming it to be the largest project of its kind in the state’s history.

In a press conference, the Chief Minister informed the media that his administration aims to complete the construction by the close of next year, incorporating a comprehensive five-year maintenance agreement. This will guarantee superior quality and state-of-the-art road safety features.

The initiative is designed to enhance mobility and improve rural infrastructure, he added.

So far, the government has already initiated the building of 19,373 km of rural connection roads, with a total expenditure of Rs 4,092 crore.

This government endeavor has been crucial, especially following the extensive disruptions caused by this year’s floods, which have significantly impaired connectivity in the affected regions.

Mann emphasized that the ongoing road projects include an innovative five-year maintenance clause to ensure durability and high standards, featuring world-class safety measures such as luminous lane markings, signage, and other improvements.

The demand for similarly high-quality roads across all towns and villages has surged, as highlighted by the Chief Minister.

In response to a question from the media, Mann stated that the Chief Minister’s Flying Squad is diligently overseeing the quality of road constructions. He noted that multiple complaints regarding substandard materials have led to the cancellation of contracts for some contractors.

He assured that strict penalties will be enforced for any contractors found responsible for inferior work or if any employee is implicated.

Mann pointed out that the state government has yet to receive any funds from the Rural Development Fund from the Central government, and the road constructions are being financed entirely through state funds.

He criticized the Central government for not releasing any portion of the Rs 1,600 crore special flood relief package to Punjab, claiming that the BJP leadership is spreading misinformation.

Regarding the ongoing strike by state roadways employees, the Chief Minister urged all workers to return to their duties and engage in dialogue with the government. He reassured that the government is earnestly working to address all concerns of PRTC employees, some of which have even been presented in court. He advised the protesting employees to conclude their demonstrations to prevent public inconvenience.