New Delhi: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Wednesday met Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari in New Delhi, where both leaders held an extensive and constructive discussion on several key infrastructure and highway-related issues concerning Punjab.
The meeting focused primarily on projects being implemented under the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) in Punjab. During the interaction, Chief Minister Mann reviewed the status of ongoing road development works, upcoming highway expansions, and issues related to project delays, land acquisition challenges, and improving coordination between state agencies and the central government.
According to information shared on Mann’s official X (formerly Twitter) account, the discussion was held in a positive and solution-oriented environment, with emphasis on fast-tracking critical infrastructure projects that directly impact connectivity, trade, and public convenience in the state.
Focus on Highway Development in Punjab
A significant part of the meeting revolved around improving national highway infrastructure in Punjab, which plays a crucial role in linking the state with northern and western regions of India. The Chief Minister reportedly stressed the need for timely completion of key highway corridors to enhance transportation efficiency, reduce travel time, and boost economic activity in the region.
ਅੱਜ ਦਿੱਲੀ ਵਿਖੇ ਕੇਂਦਰੀ ਸੜਕ ਅਤੇ ਟਰਾਂਸਪੋਰਟ ਮੰਤਰੀ ਸ਼੍ਰੀ ਨਿਤਿਨ ਗਡਕਰੀ ਜੀ ਨਾਲ ਮੁਲਾਕਾਤ ਕੀਤੀ। ਇਸ ਦੌਰਾਨ ਪੰਜਾਬ ਵਿੱਚ NHAI ਨਾਲ ਸੰਬੰਧਤ ਕਈ ਅਹਿਮ ਪ੍ਰੋਜੈਕਟਾਂ ਅਤੇ ਮਸਲਿਆਂ ‘ਤੇ ਵਿਸਥਾਰਪੂਰਵਕ ਚਰਚਾ ਹੋਈ।
ਖਾਸ ਤੌਰ ‘ਤੇ ‘ਸੜਕ ਸੁਰੱਖਿਆ ਫੋਰਸ’ (SSF) ਬਾਰੇ ਵਿਚਾਰ ਸਾਂਝੇ ਕੀਤੇ ਗਏ। ਗਡਕਰੀ ਜੀ ਨੇ ਲੋਕਾਂ ਦੀ ਜਾਨ-ਮਾਲ ਦੀ ਰਾਖੀ ਲਈ… pic.twitter.com/F91bIyUol4
— Bhagwant Mann (@BhagwantMann) May 13, 2026
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari assured that the central government remains committed to strengthening road infrastructure across Punjab and will work closely with the state administration to resolve pending issues related to project execution.
Road Safety Force (SSF) Initiative Highlighted
One of the major highlights of the meeting was the discussion around Punjab’s innovative Road Safety Force (SSF) initiative. This special force has been introduced by the state government with the objective of reducing road accidents, ensuring strict traffic discipline, and providing rapid response in case of emergencies on highways.
Chief Minister Mann shared details about how the SSF is being deployed strategically across major accident-prone stretches and highways in Punjab. The initiative focuses on surveillance, enforcement of traffic rules, and quick assistance to accident victims, thereby aiming to significantly reduce fatalities and injuries on roads.
The concept received appreciation from Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, who reportedly praised the initiative as a meaningful and proactive step towards improving road safety standards in the country. He highlighted that such models, if implemented effectively, can serve as examples for other states as well.
Strengthening Centre-State Coordination
The meeting also underscored the importance of stronger coordination between the Punjab government and the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways to ensure smooth execution of infrastructure projects. Both leaders agreed on the need for regular follow-ups, faster approvals, and efficient implementation mechanisms to avoid unnecessary delays.
Officials from both sides are expected to continue working in close coordination to address pending issues and accelerate the pace of highway development projects in the state.
The meeting between Bhagwant Mann and Nitin Gadkari marks an important step toward strengthening Punjab’s road infrastructure and enhancing road safety mechanisms. With a focus on both development and safety, the discussions are expected to contribute to faster execution of key projects and improved transportation facilities across the state.