Punjab CM lays foundation of Rs 61.82-crore Dhusi Bund project
Chandigarh, June 19
Delivering a permanent solution to the decades‑old flood menace in the Satluj belt, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Friday laid the foundation stone of the 37.93‑km‑long Dhussi Bund Link Road project in Jalandhar district at a cost of Rs 61.82 crore.
The project, connecting Shahkot‑Moga‑Rampur Road with the Gidderpindi Dhussi Bund, has been uniquely designed to serve both as a vital road corridor and a strengthened flood protection barrier, benefiting thousands of families across 15 villages.
Besides safeguarding residents from recurring floods that successive governments failed to address, the project will ease traffic congestion on key road networks, boost economic activity and further strengthen the state's rapidly expanding infrastructure under the government's ongoing drive to build world‑class roads.
Rajya Sabha MP Sant Baba Balbir Singh Seechewal and others were also present on the occasion.
Addressing the gathering, CM Mann said this important road, to be constructed along the Sutlej river, will have a total length of 37.93 km.
"Our Government has sanctioned Rs 61.82 crore for this major infrastructure project. People residing in Shahkot and Lohian regions have lived under the constant threat of floods for decades. Previous governments made tall promises during elections, but neglected the basic infrastructure needs of this rural belt."
The Chief Minister stated that his government believes in delivering results, not merely making false promises. He said he had personally witnessed the hardships faced by the people of this area when villages were disconnected during the rainy season.
"The construction of this road on the Dhussi Bund will further strengthen the embankment along the Sutlej River and serve as a strong shield against flood‑related risks for the local population."
He added that the road will provide significant daily commuting convenience to approximately 15,000‑16,000 residents living in nearly 15 villages of the area. It will connect the Shahkot‑Moga Road with the Lohian‑Makhu Road and function as an effective bypass, substantially reducing traffic congestion on the existing route.
During the monsoon, this road will be a boon for farmers, school buses, and the public by ensuring smooth, uninterrupted transportation.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Rs 61.82 crore for a 37.93 km road-flood barrier hybrid? Seems like a smart investment if it protects 15 villages and benefits 15,000-16,000 people daily. The fact that it will also serve as a bypass to reduce traffic congestion is a bonus. But I hope there's proper maintenance planned—many such projects in Punjab fall into disrepair after a few years.
Good to see CM Mann personally laying the foundation and acknowledging the hardships. But why did it take so long? Floods have been a problem for decades. Also, is this just election gimmickry? Let's see if the work is completed before the next monsoon or if it gets delayed like most government projects. Actions speak louder than words!
As someone living in the US, I follow Punjab news closely. This dual-use design (road + flood barrier) is actually an innovative approach seen in developed countries too. The fact that it will help farmers, school buses and common people during monsoon is crucial. Hope the state government ensures transparency in tenders and quality of construction. No shortcuts please! 🙏
Bhai, let's be honest. Politicians love laying foundation stones but hate completing projects. I remember similar announcements for other bunds that never materialized properly. Having said that, if this is actually built with proper engineering (especially the flood barrier aspect), it will be a game-changer for villages like Gidderpindi and surrounding areas. Keeping fingers crossed 🤞
Great initiative but I have a suggestion: Why not also include drainage channels along the road to prevent
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