Chandigarh, April 5 : Punjab Finance Minister Advocate Harpal Singh Cheema made an announcement on Saturday. He announced the rapid implementation of strategies from the Badlda Punjab Budget. The government has issued tenders for the strengthening of 1,000 kilometers of rural roads. This marks a significant step towards rural infrastructure development.The Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann-led Punjab Government has taken swift action. This implementation began within days of the budget’s passage. 

“Punjab Extends Contractor Accountability in Rural Road Project”

Addressing a press conference at Punjab Bhawan, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema revealed that the first phase of this ambitious project focuses on rural roads in the districts of Faridkot, SBS Nagar, Pathankot, and Barnala. He said that these roads, designed to be 10 meters wide, aim to enhance connectivity and improve transportation across the state.

Highlighting a key reform, the Finance Minister said that the Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann led Punjab Government has extended the accountability of contractors.Contractors previously held liability 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 a period of five years. “The Finance Minister said the government will conduct a third-party audit to ensure quality, recover funds for any discrepancies, and blacklist the contractor. He added that the government will also enforce accountability for officials overseeing these projects.”

Rural Road : Workers will construct a record-breaking 18,944 kilometers of rural link roads

The Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann led Punjab Government is committed to fulfilling its promises. Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema emphasized this dedication. The Badlda Punjab Budget for FY 2025-26 was passed on March 27. It pledges to rebuild all broken rural link roads in the state. Workers will construct a record-breaking 18,944 kilometers of rural link roads and upgrade them within a single year. This achievement sets a new benchmark in Punjab’s history.

Finance Minister Cheema criticized previous governments for undertaking such development projects only in the final year of their tenure. He assured that the current administration will promptly deliver results.Cheema addressed skepticism from the opposition. He asserted that the swift issuance of tenders following the budget’s approval demonstrates the AAP-led government’s commitment to action. This is rather than empty promises. He said that the improved rural roads will facilitate hassle-free travel. They will expedite the marketing of agricultural produce. These roads will inject new energy into Punjab’s economy.

The Badlda Punjab Budget allocates ₹2,873 crore for rural link roads. The Punjab Mandi Board will use this fund for construction and upgradation in FY 2025-26. This substantial investment underscores the Government’s dedication to transforming Punjab’s infrastructure and fostering economic growth.