Chandigarh- Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has responded to a letter from Union Minister Nitin Gadkari regarding delays and issues in National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) projects within the state. CM Mann emphasized that the Punjab government has been actively supporting NHAI, particularly in the crucial areas of land acquisition and law enforcement.
“In both cases referred to by you, the local police promptly registered the FIRs under relevant provisions of law. Further, in both these cases, arrests have been made,” CM Mann assured in his reply. The Chief Minister underscored the state’s efforts to maintain law and order and ensure that NHAI projects progress smoothly.
Addressing concerns about land acquisition, Mann highlighted the challenges posed by Punjab’s agrarian context. “You must appreciate that the state’s farmers are deeply attached to their land, which is their prized possession and main source of livelihood,” he stated. He acknowledged that the high land prices in Punjab contribute to farmers’ reluctance to part with their land unless they feel adequately compensated. However, he noted that in several instances, farmers have accepted the compensation offered by arbitrators and willingly handed over their land for NHAI projects.
The response comes after Gadkari’s letter dated August 9, where the Union Minister expressed concern over the termination of three major NHAI projects in Punjab, spanning 104 kilometers and costing ₹3,263 crore. Gadkari also warned that if the situation does not improve, the NHAI may be forced to cancel or terminate eight other projects in the state, which are currently facing severe delays.
The ongoing dialogue between the state and central governments underscores the complex challenges of infrastructure development in Punjab, particularly in balancing the needs and concerns of local farmers with national priorities.
Aman says
This is exactly the issue with this govt. not even 1 specific answer by the CM to the issue of development.
Farmers hand over land when adequately compensated. But punjab govt doesn’t have the money to pool in its share. So it’s Punjab govt that’s the reason of attempted low prices.
If these projects go, it’s free fall like that of the govt and its writ.
Everything is just free, free and none needs to work.