In a scathing critique of the political dynasties that have dominated Punjab’s border regions, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Monday highlighted how these “self-serving leaders” have hindered the area’s progress. Mann, speaking at the inauguration of a new railway over-bridge (ROB) in Gurdaspur, accused the opposition leaders of prioritizing personal power over public welfare.
“Leaders who have represented this region for decades have failed to drive any significant development. Their sole aim has been to maintain power, often at the expense of the people’s welfare,” Mann said. He specifically targeted the senior Congress leader and the Leader of Opposition in Vidhan Sabha Partap Singh Bajwa, accusing him and his family of perpetuating a cycle of political opportunism that has stalled the region's growth.
Mann pointed out the paradox of households in the region displaying flags of multiple political parties, symbolizing the leaders’ desperate attempts to cling to power. “These leaders have new wardrobes ready, hoping to be elected again, but the people have decisively rejected them,” Mann added.
One of the major points of contention Mann raised was the prevalence of toll plazas in the region, many of which he said were established under the previous regime. Of the 17 toll plazas closed by Mann’s administration, 14 were instituted by a former Public Works Department Minister from the area, presumably referring to Bajwa without naming him directly.
Mann criticized these leaders for their lip service to public service, contrasting it with the tangible benefits delivered by his government.
Under Mann’s leadership, significant strides have been made towards infrastructure development, including the construction of the Malwa Canal, a project long ignored by previous administrations. Spanning approximately 150 kilometers, this canal is expected to bring a new era of prosperity to the Malwa region, with an investment of around Rs 2,300 crore. The canal will cater to the irrigation needs of nearly two lakh acres of farmland, boosting agricultural productivity and local economies.
The Chief Minister emphasized the transparency and service-oriented approach of his administration. “Our government is dedicated to the well-being of the people. We have ensured free electricity for 90 percent of households, provided over 43,000 government jobs to the youth, and significantly improved health and education facilities,” Mann stated. He reiterated the government’s commitment to fighting corruption, asserting that while it hasn’t been completely eradicated, significant progress has been made.
Highlighting the sacrifices of the region’s soldiers, Mann announced that the State Government provides Rs one crore in financial assistance to the families of martyrs. “This region, which produces the maximum number of soldiers, deserves our utmost respect and support. It is our duty to support the families of those who have laid down their lives for the nation,” Mann said.
On the issue of drug abuse, Mann declared a zero-tolerance policy, emphasizing that his administration has dismantled significant parts of the drug supply network and imprisoned major traffickers. He also highlighted initiatives to channel the energy of the youth towards sports and positive activities, aiming to build a healthier and more vibrant community.
Concluding his address with a call to action, Mann urged the people to support the government’s environmental efforts by planting more trees. Citing a verse from Gurbani, he underscored the importance of air, water, and land, urging citizens to imbibe these values for the state’s ecological and spiritual rejuvenation.
Rs 51.74-cr ROB in Dinanagar to Eases Traffic Woes
To streamline the movement of traffic in the historic city of Dinanagar, Chief Minister Mann on Monday dedicated a newly-constructed ROB on Amritsar-Pathankot Railway section near Dinanagar railway station in Gurdaspur district. Built at a cost of Rs 51.74 crore, the ROB is a significant boon for Dinanagar residents. This 730-meter-long, 10.5-meter-wide bridge replaces level crossing C-60 and includes work on the railway portion and approach roads, fully funded by the State Government. The project commenced in December 2019 and was completed on schedule.
The bridge features 0.75-meter-wide footpaths on both sides, along with service roads and highway lights. Ample parking space with paver tiles has been provided under the bridge. The ROB is crucial for residents, alleviating traffic congestion and providing seamless connectivity.
The construction eliminates the level crossing on Amritsar-Pathankot line, ensuring uninterrupted traffic flow from border villages to Dinanagar and further to NH-54. The ROB also serves as a strategic route for defense movements, thereby acting as a catalyst for safeguarding the unity, integrity, and sovereignty of the country.
