Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema announced on Saturday that the Bhagwant Singh Mann-led government has wasted no time in putting the Badlda Punjab Budget into action. Just days after the budget’s approval, tenders have been issued for the upgradation of 1,000 kilometers of rural roads—marking a major milestone in the state’s push to improve rural infrastructure.
Speaking at a press conference at Punjab Bhawan, Minister Harpal Singh stated that the first phase of the project will focus on rural roads in Faridkot, SBS Nagar, Pathankot, and Barnala districts. These roads, each 10 meters wide, are expected to significantly boost connectivity and ease transportation in rural areas.
One major reform highlighted by Minister Harpal Singh is the increased accountability for contractors. Previously, road contractors were only responsible for a one-year warranty. Under the new system, they must maintain the roads for five years. Quality control will be ensured through third-party audits, and any faults will lead to penalties, including recovery of funds and blacklisting. Government officials overseeing these projects will also be held accountable.
Minister Harpal Singh reaffirmed the Mann government’s dedication to delivering on its promises. He pointed out that the Badlda Punjab Budget for 2025–26, passed on March 27, pledges to reconstruct all damaged rural link roads in the state. A record-breaking 18,944 kilometers of such roads are set to be built or upgraded within a year—an unprecedented target in Punjab’s history.
Criticizing past administrations for only launching such initiatives during the final year of their terms, Minister Harpal Singh said the current AAP-led government is focused on timely and effective execution. He countered opposition doubts by pointing to the prompt issuance of tenders as proof that the government is committed to action, not rhetoric. Improved rural roads, he added, will ease travel, enhance the transportation of crops, and give a significant boost to Punjab’s economy.
Minister Harpal Singh also noted that ₹2,873 crore has been earmarked in the Badlda Punjab Budget for rural road construction and improvement by the Punjab Mandi Board during FY 2025–26, reflecting the government’s strong focus on infrastructure and economic progress.