Mandi Gets a Boost: Central Government Approves ₹23.64 Crore for Pandoh Bridge Construction
Historical Lal Bridge
Mandi, April 1 – After a prolonged wait of 18 months, the people of Pandoh and the surrounding area Badar region can finally breathe a sigh of relief. The Central Government has approved ₹23.64 crore under the Pradhan Mantri Gramin Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) for the construction of the much-needed Pandoh Bridge. Public Works and Urban Development Minister Vikramaditya Singh announced this significant development on his social media platform, sharing the good news with residents eager for change.
The historic Lal Bridge, a century-old structure, was completely destroyed during the natural disaster of 2023. Its collapse severely impacted the daily lives of thousands in more than half a dozen panchayats of the Darang Assembly constituency. The bridge’s loss also dealt a heavy blow to the local economy, especially affecting the bustling Pandoh market. The demand for a new bridge had been a persistent plea from the community, finally met with this budgetary approval.
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu had previously pledged to construct a new bridge in Bakhli on December 3. This promise is now on the path to fulfillment, thanks to the central government’s budget provision. The residents have expressed heartfelt gratitude to both the state and central governments, eagerly awaiting the commencement of construction.
Leadership Efforts Pay Off
The collaborative efforts of CM Sukhu, Minister Vikramaditya Singh, and former minister Kaul Singh Thakur have proven fruitful. Their persistent advocacy ensured the issue remained a priority on both state and national platforms. Minister Singh assured that the project would soon go to tender, with plans to construct a bridge that surpasses the previous one in quality and durability. He extended his thanks to CM Sukhu, Union Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan, and the central government for their support.
Mandi’s Share in State Development
Interestingly, out of the 21 bridges sanctioned across the state under PMGSY, Mandi district has been allocated only one—the Pandoh Bridge. Minister Singh highlighted that issues concerning other damaged bridges and those requiring new construction are also under active discussion with the central government. He assured that more projects would be greenlit soon, reinforcing the commitment to improving infrastructure and connectivity in the region.
With construction set to begin soon, the new Pandoh Bridge promises to restore vital connectivity, boost local economies, and improve the quality of life for thousands of residents.
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