Chandigarh, Nov 29 (LatestNewsX) – Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann announced on Saturday that the state will begin building a grand 44,920‑km road network at a cost of ₹16,209 crore, calling it the biggest infrastructure push in Punjab’s history.
Mann told reporters that by the end of next year the government will have laid down the entire stretch, with a five‑year maintenance clause to guarantee top‑quality construction and world‑class safety features. “The aim is to improve mobility and strengthen rural infrastructure,” he said.
He also highlighted that the state has already completed 19,373 km of rural link roads for ₹4,092 crore. However, the devastating floods this year have damaged connectivity and hampered travel in many areas.
Mann emphasized that the project’s unique five‑year maintenance guarantee will preserve durability and quality, while safety upgrades such as luminous lane markings, edge lines and signage will bring the roads up to international standards.
“People have been demanding the same high‑quality roads in every city and village,” he added.
When asked about quality control, the chief minister explained that the Flying Squad continually monitors roadwork. Several contractor contracts have been cancelled after complaints about poor materials, and any party found responsible for substandard work will face strict penalties.
He also noted that the state has not yet received a single rupee of the Rural Development Fund from the Centre, and that the entire construction is being financed from state resources. Likewise, the ₹1,600 crore special flood relief package has not been disbursed to Punjab, according to Mann, and he accused BJP leaders of spreading misinformation.
On a separate issue, the chief minister urged road‑service employees to cease the strike and return to work through dialogue. “We are actively working to settle the concerns of the PRTC staff and have even taken some claims to court,” he said. “Employees should end their protest so public inconvenience is minimized.”
vg/vd
Stay informed on all the latest news, real-time breaking news updates, and follow all the important headlines in world News on Latest NewsX. Follow us on social media Facebook, Twitter(X), Gettr and subscribe our Youtube Channel.
