Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Saturday unveiled a major road development programme involving the construction of 44,920 kilometres of road stretches across the state, supported by an investment of Rs 162.09 billion.

Describing it as Punjab’s largest-ever road-building initiative, Mann said the tendering process will begin shortly. The plan spans several categories of road infrastructure, including 2,829 kilometres of Public Works Department (PWD) roads and 18,545 kilometres of rural link roads, accounting for a combined outlay of Rs 77.27 billion.

In addition, the Punjab Mandi Board will develop 22,291 kilometres of roads at a cost of Rs 76.97 billion, while 1,255 kilometres of urban roads under civic bodies will be built with an allocation of Rs 7.85 billion.

Mann stressed that a total investment of Rs 162.09 billion would be directed towards ensuring high-quality construction throughout the state. Contractors will be under strict instructions not to compromise on materials or workmanship. To reinforce accountability, village-level resolutions confirming satisfaction with road quality will be required before funds are released. Contractors will also be responsible for maintaining completed stretches for five years.

Responding to questions about the rural development fund from the Centre, Mann said the state had not received it and confirmed that the road programme is being executed using Punjab’s own resources.