Punjab's ₹800 Crore Infrastructure Push: A New Era for Rural Roads

The Punjab government plans to raise approximately ₹800 crore to repair an additional 8,000 km of rural link roads, supplementing an ongoing ₹1,800 crore project funded through a NABARD loan to the Punjab Mandi Board for upgrading 12,000 km of rural roads.

While tenders for the first phase have already been allotted, tenders for the new 8,000 km stretch have also been floated—despite a shortfall in Central assistance. The state had initially expected ₹800 crore in support from the Centre under various schemes, but the allocation is likely to fall short.

To bridge the funding gap, officials from the Punjab Mandi Board and the state finance department—led by Additional Chief Secretary (Finance) Alok Shekhar—recently met to explore financing options, including the possibility of securing an additional loan. A follow-up meeting will finalise funding modalities.

The expansion aims to address most of the rural road development demands raised by MLAs, focusing on widening, strengthening, and overall upgradation. The Punjab Mandi Board and PWD will jointly execute the project, which is expected to significantly enhance rural connectivity and infrastructure, especially in the lead-up to the upcoming elections.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.