Hoshiarpur, Punjab – Developmental Milestone
Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways, Shri Nitin Gadkari, has marked a significant step in Punjab’s development trajectory by inaugurating and laying the foundation stones for 29 National Highway projects. This monumental undertaking, valued at over Rs 4,000 crore, took place in Hoshiarpur, Punjab, in the presence of various dignitaries and officials.
Project Details and Impact
The projects encompass a wide range of infrastructural developments, including the construction of bypasses, flyovers, and road overbridges (ROBs), as well as the widening of existing roads. Key projects include:
- The 4-laning of Phagwara and Hoshiarpur bypass, enhancing high-speed connectivity and reducing travel time significantly.
- The Ladowal Bypass in Ludhiana, providing a direct link between Ludhiana-Ferozepur Highway and Delhi-Jalandhar Highway.
- The Talwandi Bhai to Firozpur section and Firozpur bypass, set to boost safety and expedite movement on highways.
These projects are expected to lead to overall economic development in the implementation area, improve the quality of life for the population, and facilitate seamless and efficient transportation, particularly for freight.
Additional Projects and Future Development
In addition to the inaugurated projects, Shri Gadkari announced further initiatives to enhance road connectivity. These include:
- A 45 km, 4-lane bypass at Mukerian, Dasuiya, and Bhogpur on the Jalandhar to Pathankot route.
- A 30 km, 4-lane bypass from Tanda to Hoshiarpur.
Moreover, Gadkari announced additional projects worth Rs 12,000 crore for the development of road infrastructure in Punjab. This includes the construction of a four-lane highway from Amritsar airport to Ramdas, and a 75-km green-field highway from Ludhiana to Bathinda, aimed at reducing travel time and improving connectivity to Halwara Airport.
Political Responses and Criticisms
The absence of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and several other state ministers from the event has been a source of criticism by Punjab BJP chief Sunil Jakhar. He accused the AAP leadership of neglecting the event, alleging a lack of commitment to developmental promises.
In summary, the inauguration and foundation stone laying ceremony by Shri Nitin Gadkari represents a significant leap towards improving Punjab’s infrastructure and connectivity, with expectations of substantial benefits in transportation, reduced travel times, and economic development in the region.