I ENSURE ZERO CORRUPTION; YOU ENSURE 100% QUALITY: CM TO CONTRACTORS
REPORT ANY BRIBE DEMANDS; STRICT ACTION WILL BE TAKEN: CM
Chandigarh, April 23, 2025
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann launched a pioneering initiative on Wednesday to construct high-quality link roads, aimed at enhancing connectivity and convenience for the people of Punjab.
Speaking at the Sadak Dhaancha Vikas Milni, an interactive session held at Tagore Theatre, the Chief Minister emphasized that this is a first-of-its-kind event in Punjab’s history, focused on ensuring superior road construction. He announced that the state government is undertaking a project to repair and upgrade 18,944 kilometers of the state’s 64,878 kilometers of link roads, with an investment of Rs 3,459.95 crore. Mann highlighted that these roads are vital for commuting and the smooth transportation of goods and services, acting as lifelines for economic growth by connecting rural areas and boosting trade.
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Mann stressed the urgent need to repair these roads, many of which have exceeded their six-year lifespan without maintenance. He added that the companies constructing the roads will be responsible for their maintenance for five years. Taking a dig at past corruption in road construction, he noted that previously, tenders were influenced by those in power, forcing contractors to compromise on quality. However, he assured that such practices have been eradicated, urging contractors to prioritize quality.
The Chief Minister promised zero tolerance for corruption, stating that strict action will be taken against any officer involved in corrupt practices. He encouraged contractors to approach road construction with a missionary zeal, as these roads are critical for rural communities. Mann also announced the formation of a coordination committee involving the Mandi Board, PWD, and contractors to address construction-related issues. Additionally, he directed Panchayats to ensure proper road widths to facilitate construction.
Highlighting technological advancements, Mann revealed that the use of Artificial Intelligence in government operations has saved Rs 226.89 crore by identifying 540 kilometers of non-existent roads listed only on paper. He emphasized completing sewerage systems and wiring before road construction and announced that a Third-Party Techno-Financial Audit will ensure quality control.
The Chief Minister also shared that the width of 78 link roads used for mining has been increased from 10 feet to 18 feet, with Rs 266.27 crore allocated for constructing and widening 389.17 kilometers of these roads. While praising Punjab’s marketing system as the best in the country, he criticized the Union government for withholding Rs 6,857 crore under the Rural Development Fund due to its misuse by the previous state government. Mann added that his government is actively pursuing this issue with the central government, which has also reduced the Marketing Development Fee from 3% to 2%.
Reflecting on irrigation improvements, Mann noted that canal water usage for irrigation has risen from 21% when he took office to 75% today, with a target of reaching 80%. His government has also revived 15,947 water courses, ensuring water reaches even the remotest villages. In education and health, Mann said efforts are underway to transform government schools, making them a preferred choice rather than a necessity for the common man.
Mann also highlighted the Sadak Surakhya Force, a unique initiative in India to enhance road safety on state and national highways. With 1,597 specially trained personnel, including women, and 144 fully equipped vehicles, the force has reduced road accident fatalities by 48.10% since its launch in February 2024. This initiative has been praised by other states and the Government of India.
Cabinet Ministers Gurmeet Singh Khudian and Harbhajan Singh ETO, Chairman Punjab Mandi Board Harchand Singh Barsat, Secretary Mandi Board Ramvir, Secretary Agriculture Basant Garg, and others attended the event.
