Arora highlighted the urgent need to develop the three-kilometre approach road near Adampur Airport, noting that the stretch falls under the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) and should be taken up immediately by NHAI to ensure safe and efficient airport access.
The Ludhiana–Ropar highway project was another key focus. The minister expressed concern over significant delays, urging that the project be re-tendered and fast-tracked to prevent further slippage. He also assured support for soil filling in accordance with Punjab’s Mining Policy.
On the NHLML parking project, Arora pointed out bureaucratic bottlenecks delaying the tender and construction. In response, the NHAI chairman instructed officials to expedite approvals to enable early commencement of work.
Expressing dissatisfaction with the slow progress of the Ludhiana cycle track, Arora called for stronger supervision and direct oversight from NHAI’s Regional Office (RO) Punjab to ensure timely completion of the pilot project, aimed at improving commuter and cyclist safety.
The meeting also discussed fund-release and portal issues hampering the Delhi–Katra highway project. Arora stressed that technical glitches on the central funds portal were disrupting project financing, prompting the NHAI chairman to direct RO Punjab to resolve these issues swiftly to ensure smooth fund flow.
A detailed review was conducted on the Jalandhar–Amritsar highway, where both sides agreed to accelerate pending repair work and improve traffic flow and safety. With Halwara Airport set to begin commercial operations soon, Arora emphasised the importance of enhancing road connectivity to serve the wider Malwa region. NHAI assured coordinated planning for approach and access roads.
The minister also raised concerns about traffic congestion around SPS Hospital and Sherpur, caused by incomplete works, and called for their immediate completion. The NHAI chairman pledged to fast-track remaining work to ease congestion and restore normal movement.
Discussions also covered the Sidhwan bridges, with both sides agreeing to prioritise completion of remaining works to ensure safety and uninterrupted connectivity for Ludhiana’s residents.
Arora further urged improved maintenance of NHAI highways across Punjab, including timely road surface repairs and restoration of street lighting to enhance night-time safety.
Chairman Yadav assured that all issues raised would be handled on priority, directing regional officials to act promptly, and commended Arora for his proactive involvement in strengthening Punjab’s road network and connectivity.
