Issuing a detailed and passionate response to the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Tuesday reaffirmed the State Government's commitment to supporting National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) projects while addressing critical concerns related to land acquisition and project execution.
Mann, in his letter, emphasized the vital role that agriculture plays in the lives of Punjabi farmers, describing land as “like a mother” to them. He highlighted that land is not just a physical asset but a primary source of livelihood and cultural significance for the farming community. The Chief Minister’s response comes in light of recent disputes and issues reported in relation to NHAI projects in Punjab.
The Chief Minister assured Gadkari that the Punjab Government fully acknowledged the importance of NHAI projects for both national development and state progress. The state has been actively supporting NHAI in land acquisition processes and other related matters, which is reflected in the general progress of most NHAI projects in the State. He noted that the Government has been proactive in facilitating these projects, barring a few exceptions where challenges have arisen.
Addressing specific concerns raised by Gadkari, Mann detailed incidents where local police registered FIRs and made arrests concerning issues with NHAI projects. He pointed out that one of these incidents involved the over-excavation of land by an NHAI contractor, while another stemmed from the contractor’s failure to pay financial dues to a subcontractor. Mann attributed these problems to the contractors’ mismanagement rather than to any shortcomings on the part of the state or its police forces.
Mann also highlighted the state police’s commitment to ensuring safety and order around NHAI project areas, noting that he has directed the local police to enhance patrolling to address security concerns. Regarding land acquisition, he underscored the farmers’ attachment to their land and the high land prices in Punjab, which contribute to their reluctance to part with their property unless they receive fair compensation.
The Chief Minister criticized NHAI’s handling of some land acquisition cases, pointing out that delays in accepting arbitration awards and mobilizing machinery have led to further complications. He explained that in several instances, while land was formally handed over to NHAI, contractors’ delays in commencing work caused farmers to resume cultivation, further complicating the process.
Mann asserted that once land is transferred to NHAI, it is the responsibility of the authority and its contractors to maintain possession and ensure project continuity. He disclosed that the Chief Secretary is holding regular review meetings with the Deputy Commissioners and NHAI officials to address and resolve these issues. Additionally, Mann expressed his intent to personally engage with farmers to address their concerns and ensure a smoother implementation of development projects.
