**Punjab Budget 2025–26: Initiatives for Transportation and Infrastructure**
The Punjab Budget for the financial year 2025–26 has been revealed, emphasizing infrastructure and transportation to stimulate economic advancement and enhance connectivity throughout the state. The administration has designated significant resources to upgrade current infrastructure and initiate new projects, with the objective of improving citizens’ quality of life and attracting further investments.
**Major Infrastructure Initiatives:**
1. **Expansion of Road Network:**
The budget presents a detailed strategy to broaden and enhance the road network across Punjab. An allocation of INR 10,000 crore is made for constructing new highways and upgrading existing roads, ensuring improved connectivity between urban and rural regions. This initiative aims to decrease travel durations and enable smoother freight transportation.
2. **Development of Smart Cities:**
Upholding its dedication to urban development, the government has set aside INR 5,000 crore for the Smart Cities Mission. This encompasses the incorporation of cutting-edge technologies in urban planning, waste management, and public services to bolster the livability and sustainability of cities such as Amritsar, Ludhiana, and Jalandhar.
3. **Enhancement of Rural Infrastructure:**
A significant segment of the budget is allocated to advancing rural infrastructure. INR 3,500 crore has been assigned for the improvement of rural roadways, water supply systems, and sanitation facilities. This initiative seeks to close the urban-rural gap and encourage equitable growth throughout the state.
**Transportation Initiatives:**
1. **Advancement of Public Transport:**
The budget highlights the importance of fortifying public transportation systems. An allocation of INR 2,000 crore is designated to modernize the current bus fleets and introduce electric buses in key cities. This initiative is anticipated to decrease pollution and offer a more efficient and eco-friendly transportation option for commuters.
2. **Development of Railway Infrastructure:**
Acknowledging the significance of rail connectivity, the government intends to work with Indian Railways to refresh railway stations and upgrade track infrastructure. A proposed investment of INR 1,500 crore aims to enhance rail services, ensuring quicker and more dependable train operations.
3. **Enhancements in Air Connectivity:**
To promote tourism and business travel, the budget allocates INR 1,000 crore for the expansion of airports in Amritsar and Mohali. This includes the construction of new terminals and extending runways to accommodate larger aircraft, thus improving the state’s connections with national and international locations.
4. **Metro Rail Developments:**
The government has proposed metro rail projects in Ludhiana and Amritsar, with an initial budget of INR 2,500 crore. These projects intend to deliver a modern and effective urban transit solution, mitigating traffic congestion and pollution in these vibrant cities.
**Conclusion:**
The Punjab Budget 2025–26 exemplifies a firm commitment to the advancement of infrastructure and transportation, acknowledging these sectors as essential elements for the state’s economic development. Through investments in these domains, the government aspires to cultivate a more interconnected, sustainable, and prosperous Punjab, laying the groundwork for enduring growth and development.
