Chandigarh, June 19 (IANS) 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

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