Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann Pledges Zero Corruption in Road Construction Projects
In a major move to reform Punjab’s infrastructure development, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Wednesday launched a transparent and corruption-free initiative for link road construction, assuring contractors that “no one will dare ask for a bribe.”
Speaking at the Sadak Dhaancha Vikas Milni held at Tagore Theatre in Chandigarh, the CM emphasized that this is the first time in the state’s history that such an interactive session has been held to ensure quality and transparency in public infrastructure projects.
Massive Road Upgrade Plan Underway
The Punjab government has announced an ambitious plan to repair and upgrade 18,944 kilometers of link roads across the state. With a whopping Rs 3,459.95 crore allocated for this project, the campaign aims to enhance road connectivity in rural areas—boosting trade, agricultural transport, and daily commuting.
“Link roads are the arteries of our rural economy,” said CM Mann. “We are committed to building these with integrity and accountability.”
The state currently maintains over 64,878 kilometers of link roads, many of which have exceeded their usable life cycle of six years and are now in dire need of repair.
A Clear Message: Quality over Kickbacks
In a firm message to contractors, the Chief Minister offered an open assurance:
“I assure you zero corruption; you assure me 100% quality.”
Mann said earlier regimes were riddled with corruption in road construction tenders, forcing contractors to compromise on quality. Under his leadership, this “corrupt nexus” has been dismantled. The government will now strictly enforce accountability, with Third-Party Techno Financial Audits and penalties for substandard work.
Contractor Support and Accountability
To improve efficiency, Mann announced the formation of a coordination committee involving the Mandi Board, PWD, and contractors. This will help resolve administrative issues promptly and ensure smoother project execution.
He also warned that strict action will be taken against any officer demanding bribes or obstructing the process.
Additionally, maintenance responsibility will lie with the construction firm for five years post-completion, ensuring sustained quality.
Technological Integration: AI-Driven Governance
In a pioneering move, Punjab has become the first Indian state to integrate Artificial Intelligence in road project assessments. This innovation has already saved the exchequer Rs 226.89 crore by identifying 540 km of ghost roads—infrastructure that existed only on paper.
Mann stated that laying of sewerage systems and electric lines must be completed before road construction begins to avoid repeat disruptions.
Wider, Safer Roads for All
Special emphasis is being placed on 78 link roads used for mining, which are now being widened from 10 feet to 18 feet. An additional Rs 266.27 crore will be spent on these 389.17 kilometers of roads, ensuring safer and smoother transport of goods.
CM Mann highlighted that Punjab’s marketing infrastructure is one of the best in the country, even though Rs 6,857 crore from the Rural Development Fund remains withheld by the Union Government due to alleged misuse by the previous administration.
Reviving Water Infrastructure and Education
Alongside road infrastructure, the CM also addressed the revival of 15,947 water courses, which now ensure canal water reaches even the remotest villages. Today, 75% of irrigation in the state relies on canal water, up from just 21% at the time Mann took office.
In the education sector, government schools are undergoing a massive overhaul to the point that “sending a child to a government school is now a choice, not a compulsion.”
Road Safety Revolution: Sadak Surakhya Force
In a separate but connected development, Punjab has launched India’s first dedicated Sadak Surakhya Force, a road safety unit staffed by 1,597 trained personnel with 144 fully equipped vehicles. Since its launch in February 2023, the state has seen a 48.10% drop in road accident fatalities.
This initiative has received praise from several other Indian states and even the central government, positioning Punjab as a model in road safety management.