Punjab Government Initiates Tenders for Upgrading 1,000 km of Rural Roads: Minister Cheema
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Synopsis
On April 5, Punjab's Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema announced the issuance of tenders for the enhancement of 1,000 km of rural roads, marking a crucial advancement in the state's infrastructure development. This initiative aims to improve connectivity and support the economy.
Key Takeaways
- 1,000 km of rural roads to be upgraded
- Contractors now have a 5-year maintenance responsibility
- Third-party audits for quality assurance
- Budget allocates Rs 2,873 crore for rural roads
- Record of 18,944 km of rural roads to be upgraded
Chandigarh, April 5 (NationPress) Punjab's Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema announced on Saturday that the government has released tenders aimed at enhancing 1,000 km of rural roads, representing a pivotal move towards better infrastructure.
During a media briefing, Cheema highlighted that the inaugural phase of this initiative concentrates on rural roads in districts like Faridkot, SBS Nagar, Pathankot, and Barnala.
These roads are being constructed to a width of 10 metres to improve connectivity and transportation throughout the state.
Emphasizing a crucial reform, the minister stated that contractor accountability has been significantly enhanced.
"In the past, contractors were only accountable for a one-year warranty on the roads they built. Under the new regulations, they will now be responsible for road maintenance for five years. A third-party audit will be executed to ensure quality, and any violations will lead to fund recovery and contractor blacklisting," said the Finance Minister, who also mentioned that government officials overseeing these projects will be held accountable.
Reiterating the government’s dedication to keeping its commitments, Cheema pointed out that the ‘Badlda Punjab Budget’ for 2025-26, approved on March 27, includes a commitment to repair all damaged rural link roads across the state.
A remarkable 18,944 km of rural link roads are set to be constructed or upgraded within a single year, establishing a new record in the state’s history, he added.
Cheema criticized previous administrations for initiating such development projects only during their final year in office, assuring that the current government is focused on timely results.
He also countered skepticism from the Opposition, asserting that the quick release of tenders following the budget approval showcases the AAP-led government’s commitment to tangible actions rather than mere rhetoric.
Improved rural roads will facilitate seamless travel, accelerate the marketing of agricultural products, and revitalize the state's economy. The state Budget allocates Rs 2,873 crore for the enhancement and construction of rural link roads by the Punjab Mandi Board in 2025-26.
