Chandigarh, April 9 — Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has approved a ₹4,000-crore plan to construct 20,000 km of link roads across the state, aiming to revamp rural connectivity and stimulate economic activity.
Stating that many of these roads have remained unattended for over six years, Mann said the project would address long-overdue repairs and create better transport access for goods and services in rural regions.
“A comprehensive on-ground survey will be conducted to identify and prioritise roads based on urgency,” Mann said, adding that roads will be categorised into top priority, priority, and needy groups.
He directed the Public Works Department and Mandi Board to ensure strict oversight of the project, stating, “Every penny must be spent wisely, and contractors will be held accountable for maintaining the roads for five years.”
The Chief Minister said Artificial Intelligence would be integrated into the project to support need-based planning and resource optimisation.
“AI technology will help ensure only the most essential work is undertaken, delivering the highest quality results with full transparency,” Mann said.
Officials said the project is expected to improve last-mile connectivity in villages and link them more effectively to markets, schools, and health centres, thereby boosting local development.
