PWD Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO Lays Foundation Stone for Rs 70 Crore Four-Lane Railway Overbridge in Tarn Taran
In a major step to ease the traffic congestion along the busy Tarn Taran-Amritsar old road, Punjab’s Public Works Department (PWD) Minister, Harbhajan Singh ETO, today laid the foundation stone for a much-needed four-lane railway overbridge at the A-25 railway line crossing, popularly known as Kakka Kandyala railway crossing. The event took place in the presence of Tarn Taran MLA, Dr. Kashmir Singh Sohal, and a large gathering of local residents and officials.
The new overbridge is being developed as a crucial infrastructure project to resolve the growing traffic problems that have plagued the area, especially for pilgrims visiting the nearby Sri Darbar Sahib, Tarn Taran. This city, steeped in historical and religious significance, witnesses an influx of thousands of devotees and tourists every day, leading to significant traffic bottlenecks, particularly at the railway crossings. The new bridge is expected to provide much-needed respite to daily commuters and tourists alike.
Speaking to the media at the event, Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO highlighted the urgency of the project, explaining how the rising traffic on this vital road has long been a concern for the local authorities and citizens. He stressed that the overbridge, which is estimated to cost around Rs 70 crore, will stretch 770 meters in length and 5.5 meters in width. The construction is expected to be completed within 18 months, after which the region will experience smoother and safer transit.
“The problem of traffic jams has been persistent on the Tarn Taran-Amritsar old road, and this overbridge is part of our broader efforts to upgrade the state’s infrastructure,” said Harbhajan Singh ETO. “We are committed to reducing the inconvenience faced by pilgrims and the residents of Tarn Taran alike, and this project will play a key role in that effort.”
MLA Dr. Kashmir Singh Sohal, who was instrumental in pushing forward the demand for the construction of the railway overbridge, expressed his gratitude to Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann and the PWD Minister for approving and initiating the project. “This railway overbridge has been a long-standing demand of the people in my constituency,” Dr. Sohal stated, adding that the project’s completion would bring a significant positive impact on the daily lives of those who travel on this route.
Dr. Sohal went on to highlight the increasing influx of pilgrims to Sri Darbar Sahib and noted how the new overbridge would improve accessibility, reducing the delays caused by the frequent closing of the level crossing. “This project is a game-changer for both the locals and pilgrims visiting this sacred city. The heavy traffic, particularly during religious events, has always been a challenge, but with this new infrastructure in place, we are optimistic that these issues will soon be a thing of the past.”
In addition to improving traffic conditions, the project is also expected to boost economic activity in the area, as the smoother connectivity would make Tarn Taran more accessible for trade and tourism. The project is part of the state government’s broader plan to modernize infrastructure and foster growth in key regions across Punjab.
Concluding the event, both Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO and MLA Dr. Kashmir Singh Sohal assured the public that the project would be closely monitored to ensure timely completion. “The state government is committed to delivering quality infrastructure that not only meets the needs of today but also paves the way for future growth and prosperity,” said ETO.
As the construction begins, the residents of Tarn Taran are eagerly looking forward to the positive impact the overbridge will bring, hoping it will significantly reduce the delays and congestion they have long endured.