Fazilka, Punjab: Strengthening infrastructure and connectivity across Punjab, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Sunday inaugurated the foundation for 300 kilometers of new roads and initiated the renovation of 350 kilometers of existing roads in Jalalabad, Fazilka district. Cabinet ministers, MLAs, and other dignitaries were present at the event.
Part of Punjab’s Ambitious 43,000 km Road Network
Highlighting the scale of development, CM Mann stated that these projects are part of a massive 43,000-kilometer road network being developed across Punjab to ensure world-class infrastructure. The Chief Minister emphasized strict accountability and quality in road construction, while also announcing plans to shift electricity poles underground to enhance safety and aesthetics.
He expressed confidence that voters will continue to support the government in future elections due to its commitment to public welfare and infrastructure development.
Read also: Punjab AAP Govt Completes 4 Years: Bhagwant Mann Highlights Education, Health and 65,000 Jobs
Government Achievements and Public Welfare Focus
Addressing the public rally, CM Mann highlighted the government’s achievements over the last four years:
- Achieved more in four years than the traditional parties did in 70 years.
- Committed to taking development to the next level by 2027.
- Implemented welfare-focused policies aimed at improving the lives of common citizens.
He stressed that the AAP government works tirelessly for public welfare, while opposition parties historically focused on personal gain and protecting vested interests.
Criticism of Opposition Parties
CM Mann sharply criticized opposition parties:
- Akali Dal: Called their efforts the “Family Save Yatra,” accusing them of misusing religion for political gain and protecting criminal elements in the state.
- Congress: Criticized internal conflicts and lack of agenda, claiming their sole objective is to exploit Punjab’s resources.
He reaffirmed that the people of Punjab are aware of these issues and will not fall for opposition political theatrics in the upcoming elections.
Women Empowerment Scheme: Maawa-Dhiyan Satkaar
CM Mann announced the Maawa-Dhiyan Satkaar Scheme, under which:
- Every woman will receive ₹1,000 per month
- Women from Scheduled Castes will receive ₹1,500 per month
- Benefits will be directly transferred to bank accounts, including women already receiving social security pensions
- Approximately 97% of women in Punjab are expected to benefit, with a budget allocation of ₹9,300 crore
- Registration for the scheme will begin on 13 April
Infrastructure Development and Road Upgradation
CM Mann outlined Punjab’s major infrastructure initiatives:
- Statewide repair and upgrading of 43,000 km of connecting roads, including maintenance for the next five years
- Construction of new roads and renovation of old roads to ensure better connectivity and smoother travel
He highlighted frontline development in border areas, ensuring doctors and teachers are incentivized to work in remote regions with mandatory two-year service, extra allowances, and additional points for promotions.
Irrigation and Water Supply Improvements
The Chief Minister shared key achievements in water management:
- Sarhali Canal in Majha region: 22 km revived to improve water supply
- Bhakra Canal capacity: Increased from 9,500 cusecs to 10,000 cusecs without land acquisition
- End of rotational water distribution from Firozepur and Sirhind Canals, providing continuous water supply for farmers
- Groundwater recharge: Reduced exploitation rate from 61.49% in 2022 to 31.6% in 2025, with some villages seeing recharge up to 4 meters
He stated that future plans include underground electricity lines across Punjab to improve safety, prevent accidents, and ensure better electricity supply.
Government Achievements in Public Services
CM Mann also highlighted the AAP government’s accomplishments:
- Free electricity for 90% of households
- Over 65,000 government jobs provided without corruption
- Toll plaza closures saving ₹70 lakh daily
- Continuous development in schools, hospitals, and roads
- Elimination of corruption to ensure public funds benefit citizens directly
Vision for Punjab’s Future
CM Mann emphasized creating equal opportunities for youth, highlighting the need to remove past barriers that limited access to education, jobs, and resources. He shared a success story from 2008-09, when he helped a talented girl from Donha Nanka village gain admission to a prestigious academy, illustrating the government’s focus on merit-based opportunities.
Read also: CM Bhagwant Mann Inaugurates ₹3,200 Crore Tata Steel Green Plant in Ludhiana, Creating 2,500 Jobs
