Harjot Bains Accelerates Sri Kiratpur Sahib-Nangal Highway Project
Minister Terms Four-Laning a Dream Project, Directs Weekly Reviews and Urgent Land Acquisition
Chandigarh, May 16, 2025 — In a significant push to boost road infrastructure in Punjab, Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains has instructed officials of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and related departments to expedite the long-awaited four-laning of the Sri Kiratpur Sahib-Nangal highway, calling it a “dream project” essential for public safety and regional development.
Presiding over a high-level meeting at Punjab Civil Secretariat-1, Bains, who is also the MLA from Sri Anandpur Sahib, emphasized that this project is not only critical for local commuters but also holds religious, cultural, and economic importance. He announced that he will personally monitor the project’s progress with weekly reviews to eliminate bureaucratic delays.
“From Killer Road to Lifeline”: Why This Project Matters
The Sri Kiratpur Sahib-Nangal stretch, which links Punjab with Himachal Pradesh, has earned the grim moniker of a “Killer Road” due to frequent accidents and high traffic density.
“This project is more than an infrastructure upgrade—it’s a matter of life and safety. The road connects Sri Anandpur Sahib and Mata Naina Devi, two sacred pilgrimage sites, and sees thousands of daily travelers,” Bains stated.
He underscored that four-laning this key stretch will enhance safety, reduce travel time, and provide better road connectivity between the states.
Timeline and Government Backing
Thanks to Bains’ consistent advocacy since 2022, the project finally received a green signal from the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) after two rounds of talks with Union Minister Nitin Gadkari. The Detailed Project Report (DPR) was finalized in December 2024, setting the stage for implementation.
Government Action Points:
- Land acquisition to be expedited immediately
- Weekly progress reviews chaired by Harjot Singh Bains
- DPR completed and approvals secured
- Emphasis on local consultation and safety provisions
Additional Projects to Enhance Commuter Safety
Bains also directed officials to kickstart the Bhartgarh-Bara Pind service lane link, a long-delayed project that will benefit thousands of local commuters and improve road safety across multiple villages.
Another long-pending demand was addressed during the meeting—construction of a foot overbridge in village Sarsa Nangal. Residents have raised safety concerns for years, especially regarding schoolchildren and elderly pedestrians. The minister ordered NHAI to begin this work without delay.
Harjot Bains’ Vision for Infrastructure
As a leader known for grassroots engagement and proactive governance, Bains has made it clear that infrastructure development is among his top priorities. The highway project, according to him, aligns with the broader vision of the Punjab government to create modern, safe, and efficient roadways that foster regional growth.
“This highway is not just about transportation. It’s about connecting people, promoting tourism, ensuring safety, and bringing economic uplift to the region,” he said.
Project Benefits at a Glance
Improved Road Safety
Conversion of a high-risk road into a four-lane corridor will reduce accident rates significantly.
Enhanced Pilgrim Access
Thousands of pilgrims visiting Sri Anandpur Sahib and Mata Naina Devi will benefit from smoother access.
Boost to Local Economy
Better road infrastructure will promote tourism and trade in surrounding towns and villages.
Environmental and Social Audits
Plans are underway to ensure environmentally sustainable practices and address local landholder concerns.