The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is facing a critical decision regarding the future of eight major highway projects in Punjab. These projects, valued at around Rs 14,288 crore, are at risk of being cancelled if the existing law and order situation does not improve in the state. This warning was issued by Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari in a letter to Punjab Chief Minister Bhawant Mann, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation related to ongoing construction activities, specifically the Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway.
Concerns over safety and security have been raised following reported incidents of violence and intimidation targeting engineers and contractors involved in the highway projects. These incidents include attacks on personnel in Jalandhar and threats made in Ludhiana against project staff and facilities. Minister Gadkari highlighted the importance of these greenfield corridor projects and expressed that the cancellation of even one package could have a significant impact on the entire stretch, rendering it ineffective.
Despite earlier assurances from stakeholders during a review meeting in July, regarding prioritizing land acquisition and law enforcement issues, Minister Gadkari expressed disappointment over the lack of progress. He revealed that unresolved land acquisition matters and deteriorating law and order have led to concessionaires seeking contract terminations and raising claims against NHAI. Additionally, three projects with a total value of Rs 3,263 crore have already been terminated by NHAI due to challenges related to land availability.