Nitin Gadkari warns of cancelling highway projects in Punjab if law and order does not improve
Nitin Gadkari has issued a stern warning to Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, stating that the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) may have to cancel or terminate eight major highway projects in Punjab if the law and order situation does not improve. These projects, valued at Rs 14,288 crore, are under threat due to ongoing security concerns and delays.
Gadkari's ultimatum comes in response to recent incidents affecting the construction of the Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway. Reports indicate that engineers and workers have been attacked in Jalandhar and there have been threats of arson and violence against the project camp and staff in Ludhiana. Gadkari emphasised that the cancellation of even one segment of these greenfield corridors could render the entire project ineffective.
In his letter to CM Mann, Gadkari outlined serious safety concerns for NHAI officers, contractors, and their employees. He also noted issues with pending land acquisition, and included photos documenting the assaults.
Gadkari referred to a review meeting on July 15, where he was assured that issues related to land acquisition and law and order would be addressed promptly. However, he expressed disappointment that no significant progress has been made and that the situation has deteriorated further. Due to these ongoing issues, several concessionaires have requested to end their contracts early and have raised claims against NHAI. Previously, NHAI had already terminated three projects worth Rs 3,263 crore due to land
