Punjab Govt Issues Tenders to Strengthen 1,000 km of Rural Roads: Minister Cheema

Chandigarh(The Uttam Hindu): Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema announced on Saturday that the state government has issued tenders for the strengthening of 1,000 km of rural roads, marking a significant step in infrastructure development. Cheema informed the media that the first phase of this project will focus on rural roads in Faridkot, SBS Nagar, Pathankot, and Barnala districts. These roads, designed to be 10 meters wide, aim to enhance connectivity and improve transportation across the state. A key reform in this initiative is the extension of accountability for contractors. "Previously, contractors were responsible for only a one-year warranty on the roads they built. Now, they will be held accountable for the maintenance and upkeep of these roads for five years. A third-party audit will be conducted to ensure quality, and any discrepancies will result in recovery of funds and the blacklisting of the contractor," said Cheema. The accountability of government officials overseeing the projects will also be strictly enforced.

Cheema further highlighted that the state government’s ‘Badlda Punjab Budget’ for 2025-26, passed on March 27, pledged to rebuild all damaged rural link roads across the state. He stated that a record 18,944 km of rural roads will be constructed or upgraded in a single year, setting a new benchmark in Punjab’s infrastructure development. Criticizing past administrations for delaying such projects until the final year of their tenure, Cheema assured that the current AAP-led government is committed to delivering results promptly. He also addressed opposition scepticism, emphasizing that the swift issuance of tenders after the budget’s approval demonstrates the government's commitment to action. The improved rural roads are expected to facilitate smoother travel, expedite the marketing of agricultural produce, and inject fresh momentum into Punjab's economy. The state budget has allocated Rs 2,873 crore for the construction and upgrade of rural link roads by the Punjab Mandi Board in 2025-26.