How is PMGSY Transforming Connectivity for Vaishali Residents?

Vaishali, July 3 (NationPress) In a remarkable advancement for the rural communities in Bihar's Vaishali district, the establishment of an all-weather road under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) in Sahadullapur Panchayat, Bidupur block, has significantly enhanced connectivity between villages and urban areas, providing much-needed convenience and safety to the locals.

Previously, the region faced significant obstacles, particularly during the monsoon season when roads became impassable, obstructing vital access for ambulances and other essential services. Residents recount how even basic travel became perilous, with numerous accidents occurring due to the dilapidated road conditions.

"We experienced numerous challenges in the past," stated Surendra Dev, a local inhabitant.

"Now, within minutes, we can reach various facilities, including medical assistance. This development has brought me immense joy."

Ravindra Prasad, another community member, expressed, "We are now enjoying numerous facilities. This initiative has provided us with a reliable road. Previously, accidents were frequent due to poor road conditions. It was a nightmare during the rainy season."

The Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, initiated with the vision of fostering inclusive development, aims to deliver all-weather road connectivity to previously unconnected habitations throughout India. Its core goal is to guarantee dependable year-round access by constructing roads with essential culverts and cross-drainage structures.

In plain regions, the scheme focuses on villages with populations of 500 and above, while in hilly states, desert areas, tribal regions, and selected backward districts, it targets habitations with populations as low as 250.

Beyond mere construction, the PMGSY emphasizes the maintenance and durability of these roads. State and Union Territory governments are tasked with their upkeep, following strict guidelines set by the Ministry of Rural Development. Roads constructed under the PMGSY come with a five-year maintenance contract included in the construction agreement, ensuring that quality does not diminish right after completion.

Moreover, understanding that the design lifespan of these roads is ten years, states are obligated to take on an additional five years of maintenance following the initial period. To facilitate this, the Ministry has established MoUs with states and launched e-MARG, a software system to streamline maintenance payments and ensure accountability during the defect liability phase.

This system also encompasses post-construction rehabilitation, renewal, routine maintenance, and emergency repairs, with dedicated maintenance funds allocated in state budgets and managed by the State Rural Roads Development Agencies (SRRDAs).

After the first five years, PMGSY roads fall under zonal maintenance contracts that extend maintenance for another five years, including necessary renewals.

For the Sahdullapur Panchayat in Vaishali, this dedication to connectivity and maintenance is already transforming lives, providing access to markets, healthcare, education, and opportunities that were previously unattainable.