Amritsar: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Sunday dedicated the newly constructed Sultanwind Flyover at the junction of Sultanwind Bypass and Sultanwind Link Road to the people of Amritsar, calling it a major step toward easing traffic congestion and improving connectivity in the holy city.
The project, aimed at facilitating smooth movement for lakhs of devotees visiting Sri Harmandir Sahib daily, was completed with claimed savings of ₹11.52 crore through what the government described as a transparent and efficiency-driven execution model.
Flyover to Ease Traffic Congestion in Amritsar
The newly inaugurated flyover has been built to address long-standing traffic bottlenecks at the Sultanwind junction on Tarn Taran Road near Tara Wala Bridge.
According to the Chief Minister, more than two lakh devotees and commuters face congestion in the area every day. The new infrastructure is expected to:
- Improve traffic flow in the city
- Reduce travel time for residents and pilgrims
- Enhance connectivity to key religious and urban locations
The government said the project was completed on a fast-track basis to ensure minimal inconvenience to visitors to the holy city.
Project Built with ₹11.52 Crore Savings
The Punjab government had initially approved ₹34.20 crore for the flyover project, but it was completed at a cost of ₹22.68 crore, resulting in savings of ₹11.52 crore.
The flyover structure includes:
- Total project length: 985 metres (including approach roads)
- Flyover length: 725 metres
- Width: 14 metres
- Service roads: 5.5 metres on both sides
Officials stated that the cost reduction was achieved through transparent procurement and efficient project execution.
Eco-Friendly Infrastructure with Rainwater Harvesting
The Sultanwind Flyover project also incorporates environmental sustainability features.
Key eco-friendly elements include:
- RCC stormwater drainage system
- Rainwater harvesting structures
- Sustainable urban design approach
The government highlighted this as part of its commitment to environmentally responsible infrastructure development.
Major Infrastructure Expansion Announced in Punjab
During the event, CM Bhagwant Mann announced large-scale infrastructure and welfare initiatives across the state, including:
- 3,100 new sports stadiums
- 3,000 gyms
- 400 Aam Aadmi Clinics by July 15
- Maintenance responsibility for 43,000 km of roads for five years
He also stated that over 80% of canal water is now being used for irrigation, reducing dependence on groundwater.
Focus on Sports, Healthcare, and Rural Development
The Chief Minister said sports infrastructure is being expanded to engage youth and combat drug abuse in Punjab.
He added that:
- Over 90% households are receiving free electricity
- Farmers are being supplied daytime power
- Government jobs have been given to more than 68,000 youth
- Several toll plazas have been closed to save public money
- Rural development grants are being actively implemented
Opposition Criticism and Political Remarks
CM Mann also targeted opposition parties, including the Indian National Congress, Shiromani Akali Dal, and Bharatiya Janata Party, accusing them of spreading misinformation and fake videos after failing to counter the government’s development work.
He reiterated that his government remains focused on transparent governance, development, and public welfare.
Leaders Present at the Event
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Cabinet Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO along with several senior officials and dignitaries.
The inauguration of the Sultanwind Flyover marks a significant infrastructure upgrade for Amritsar, aimed at improving mobility for residents and pilgrims. Alongside claims of major cost savings and environmental features, the Punjab government used the occasion to highlight its broader development agenda across the state.
