Jalandhar: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, during his visit to Jalandhar, laid the foundation stone for a major infrastructure project aimed at strengthening connectivity and flood protection in the Mand region. The project includes the construction of a 35-kilometre-long paved road along the Sutlej River’s Dhussi Bund, fulfilling a long-pending demand of local residents.
The event was attended by Rajya Sabha MP Sant Balbir Singh Seechewal, who described the project as a result of years of public efforts and advocacy.
35-Km Road to Connect Gidderpindi to Phillaur
The proposed road will stretch from Gidderpindi to Phillaur, connecting dozens of villages across the Mand region.
Officials stated that the project will:
- Improve rural connectivity
- Reduce travel time between villages
- Strengthen embankment infrastructure along the Sutlej river
- Enhance access to emergency services
The road is expected to significantly improve transportation and regional mobility for local communities.
Boost to Flood Protection and Safety Along Sutlej River
Apart from improving connectivity, the project is also designed to strengthen the Dhussi Bund (embankment) along the Sutlej River.
The initiative aims to reduce the risk of flood-related damage in vulnerable areas by reinforcing riverbanks and improving structural stability along the bund.
Demand Intensified After 2023 Flood Damage
Local residents and representatives highlighted that the demand for a permanent road along the Dhussi Bund gained urgency after the 2023 floods, when a breach near Mandala Chhanna caused extensive damage to surrounding villages.
Since then, there has been a continuous demand for both embankment strengthening and permanent road construction to ensure long-term safety and connectivity.
Benefits for Dozens of Villages
Once completed, the project will directly benefit numerous villages in the region by improving access between Gidderpindi, Phillaur, and surrounding areas.
Key expected benefits include:
- Better rural transportation
- Improved trade and economic activity
- Faster emergency response access
- Enhanced connectivity during flood situations
Strong Security Arrangements During Foundation Ceremony
Considering the Chief Minister’s visit, tight security arrangements were made across the area. Police personnel were deployed along the Sutlej river and surrounding locations to ensure smooth conduct of the foundation stone laying ceremony.
The event concluded peacefully with participation from local representatives and officials.
The 35-km Dhussi Bund road project marks a significant step toward improving rural infrastructure and flood resilience in Punjab’s Jalandhar region. By combining connectivity with embankment strengthening, the initiative is expected to provide long-term relief and development benefits to the Mand area.
