Fulfilling a long-pending demand of nearly six decades, MLA Kuljit Singh Randhawa on Friday inaugurated the construction of a high-level bridge over the Ghaggar River at village Tiwana in the Derabassi constituency. The Rs 8.55 crore project aims to significantly improve connectivity for dozens of villages situated along the Ghaggar.
The bridge, measuring 410 feet in length and 28 feet in width, will serve as a vital link between Derabassi and the Banur–Rajpura road, easing daily commuting for thousands of residents. Addressing a large gathering on the occasion, MLA Randhawa stated that this project was a major commitment made to the people of Derabassi and Rajpura constituencies, which has now been fulfilled with the support of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann.
He highlighted that consistent efforts to address the long-standing demand of villagers who frequently travel to Banur and Rajpura have finally borne fruit. Expressing satisfaction, he said he is proud to have delivered on his promise to the people. Randhawa further emphasized that the bridge will also act as an alternative route connecting the Rajpura–Ambala Highway with the Chandigarh–Ambala Highway, thereby reducing travel time and congestion.
He recalled that last year, an embankment project worth Rs 10 crore was completed at the same location to protect nearby villages from flooding during the monsoon season. He assured residents that further strengthening of the Ghaggar embankment would be undertaken to ensure their safety during heavy rains.
Reaffirming his commitment to development, the MLA stated that all dilapidated link roads in the constituency would be repaired within the next two to three months, as several projects have already received approval. Expressing gratitude to the voters of Derabassi, Randhawa said their support has enabled him to work towards fulfilling their demands effectively.
Highlighting the achievements of the Punjab Government, he mentioned key initiatives such as the Rs 10 lakh Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana, free 600 units of electricity, establishment of Aam Aadmi Clinics, and the launch of Schools of Eminence to improve healthcare and education. He also referred to the legislation passed to strengthen punishment in sacrilege cases and the implementation of the ‘Mawan Dhiyan Satkar Yojna’ to provide financial assistance to women.
He directed officials of the Mandi Board to ensure timely completion of the bridge while maintaining high construction quality. The event witnessed the presence of several Sarpanches, Panchayat members, and residents from villages including Tiwana, Jahjjon, Basma, Tapla, Khajoor Mandi, Dangdehra, Sarsin, Kurli, Alamgir, Jarout, Batoli, and Jaharmari.
SDM Derabassi Amit Gupta, Executive Engineer Mandi Board Sukhwinder Singh, along with AAP leaders, workers, and a large number of women, were also present.