DW BUREAU /CHANDIGARH Punjab PWD Minister Harbhajan Singh E.T.O. on Thursday sought adequate availability of Central funds for integrated development of road infrastructure in the states. The PWD Minister pointed out that development and maintenance of road networks was a constant process for which increased and adequate funds should be released time to time for completion of projects in stipulated deadlines. Punjab is making continuous and concerted efforts to meet the needs related to funds, said the Minister, adding that almost all the other states accept the fact that adequate funds are never available to fulfil needs of the road sector. He also emphasised that a special scheme for this purpose should be introduced. While speaking at a national conference on completion of 75 years of independence at Bengaluru under 'Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav' on September 8 & 9, Harbhajan Singh E.T.O. stated that road infrastructure and network plays a pivotal role in a country's holistic development. He pointed out that better road infrastructure was the backbone of industrial as well as growth in other sectors too. Describing that Punjab had to pass through a tough time after the independence in developing the State road network and village roads by its own resources. Now, with schemes such as PMGSY, Punjab is further committed towards improving Link roads. Elaborating that presently in Punjab, Harbhajan Singh ETO said that there were 1300 km Greenfield Expressways and Access Controlled National Highways under progress. These new major developments would connect states with ports besides encouraging the activities to make the existing road infrastructure more robust, he added. Handing over possession of land for greenfield projects is being expedited. The works on ground have also been started where the possession of land has been handed over. The PWD Minister said that the State had availed funding through various means including PPP and OMT etc to upgrade the road network, besides seeking funds from other concerned institutions. Similarly, performance-based long-term maintenance agreements have been entered into for proper maintenance of the state's road network. He said that the development of roads in Punjab is highly impacted due to its geo-strategic position. Development of new links and bridges in border districts requires approvals from defence authorities regarding location, specifications, and construction schedule. He said that the development of a better road network in the border areas would help in meeting the needs of the residents for agriculture in the lands vis-a-vis strengthening the defence of our country. He also suggested to install CCTV systems on Highways/roads for improved Security and safety of road users. (editor@dailyworld.in)