Ludhiana: In a major development for Ludhiana and its neighbouring regions, the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) plans to begin work on at least two out of the four key highway projects in the district by March 2025. Although initial concerns over land acquisition delays had threatened the projects, recent advancements have raised hopes for their timely execution.
The four proposed projects include the 37.7-kilometre Ludhiana-Rupnagar-Green Field Highway, running from Ghumnewal to Bonkar near Cycle Valley, and the 47.2-kilometre stretch leading to Roopnagar and Doraha. That apart, the Southern Ludhiana Bypass, spanning 25.24 km, and the 33-kilometre Ludhiana-Bhatinda-Green Field Highway are also in progress.
Land acquisition complete
NHAI officials have said that the land acquisition for the Ludhiana-Rupnagar Green Field Highway (Package One) is now complete, with construction expected to begin by March. However, compensation issues with contractors have led to delays in the Southern Ludhiana Bypass project. Ongoing arbitration concerns regarding land acquisition rates are further affecting its schedule.
Regarding the Southern Ludhiana Bypass, NHAI has secured 21.6 km of the total 25.2 km required. However, disputes continue in certain villages, where landowners are demanding higher compensation than what NHAI has proposed. On a more positive note, the Ludhiana-Bhatinda Green Field Highway (Package Two) has faced fewer land acquisition obstacles, with 29.4 km of land already in possession and work is also expected to start in March.
Officials are optimistic
Local officials remain optimistic about the progress. Ludhiana Deputy Commissioner Jitendra Jorwal said that most land acquisitions have been completed and work is expected to begin this year. He spoke of the importance of finishing land acquisition for the project’s timely implementation.
Residents and local businesses are eagerly awaiting the improvements these highways promise and expectations of reduced traffic congestion and better connectivity. However, some landowners have voiced concerns about the fairness of compensation.
Industrialist Ranjodh Singh said that while improved road infrastructure is crucial, it is equally important to ensure that landowners receive just compensation, as they are losing both land and livelihood. These projects are expected to enhance transportation efficiency in Ludhiana, alleviate congestion and strengthen links between key areas, benefiting both the community and businesses.
