Govt issues tenders for strengthening 1,000 km of rural roads: Punjab minister Cheema

IANS April 5, 2025 206 views

Punjab's Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema has unveiled an ambitious rural road infrastructure project targeting 1,000 km of roadways. The initiative introduces stricter contractor accountability, mandating a five-year maintenance commitment with third-party quality audits. By targeting districts like Faridkot and Pathankot, the government aims to enhance rural connectivity and economic mobility. This strategic approach demonstrates the AAP-led government's commitment to systematic and transparent infrastructure development.

"We will rebuild all damaged rural link roads in the state" - Harpal Singh Cheema, Punjab Finance Minister
Chandigarh, April 5: Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema on Saturday said the government has issued tenders for strengthening 1,000 km of rural roads, marking a significant step towards infrastructure development.

Key Points

1

Punjab to develop 18,944 km of rural roads in one year

2

Contractors now accountable for five-year road maintenance

3

Third-party audits will ensure quality infrastructure

4

Rs 2,873 crore budget allocated for rural road projects

Cheema told the media here that the first phase of the project focuses on rural roads in Faridkot, SBS Nagar, Pathankot, and Barnala districts.

He said these roads, designed to be 10 metres wide, aim to enhance connectivity and improve transportation across the state.

Highlighting a key reform, the minister said the government has extended the accountability of contractors.

"Previously, contractors were liable for only a one-year warranty on the roads they constructed. Under the new mandate, contractors will now be responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the roads for five years. To ensure quality, a third-party audit will be conducted, and any discrepancies will result in recovery of funds, and blacklisting of the contractor,” said the Finance Minister, adding the accountability of government officials overseeing these projects would also be enforced.

Reaffirming the government's commitment to fulfilling its promises, Cheema emphasized that the ‘Badlda Punjab Budget’ for 2025-26, passed on March 27, included a pledge to rebuild all damaged rural link roads in the state.

A record-breaking 18,944 km of rural link roads would be constructed or upgraded within a single year, setting a new benchmark in the state’s history, he said.

Criticising previous governments for undertaking such development projects only in the final year of their tenure, Finance Minister Cheema assured the current administration is dedicated to delivering results promptly.

He also addressed scepticism from the Opposition, asserting that the swift issuance of tenders following the budget's approval demonstrates the AAP-led government's commitment to action rather than empty promises.

He said the improved rural roads will facilitate hassle-free travel, expedite the marketing of agricultural produce, and inject new energy into the state’s economy. The state Budget allocates Rs 2,873 crore for the construction and upgradation of rural link roads by the Punjab Mandi Board in 2025-26.

Reader Comments

R
Rajesh K.
Finally some good news for Punjab's rural areas! The 5-year contractor warranty is a game changer. Hope they actually enforce it properly 🤞
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Priya S.
My village in Faridkot desperately needs better roads. The current ones are full of potholes that damage vehicles. This can't come soon enough!
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Amarjeet B.
While I appreciate the initiative, I'm skeptical about the 18,944 km claim. That's an enormous target for one year. Hope they focus on quality over quantity.
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Simran J.
The third-party audit system sounds promising! This could really prevent corruption if implemented properly. Fingers crossed 🤞
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Harpreet M.
Great to see development happening early in the term rather than election year gimmicks. Hope they maintain this momentum!
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Gurdeep S.
Better rural roads will be a huge boost for farmers. Transporting crops won't be such a headache anymore. Good move! 👏

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Tags:
Punjab Infrastructure Rural Road Development Harpal Singh Cheema AAP Government Rural Connectivity
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