Punjab adopts AI to revolutionize rural road development

As part of the Punjab Government’s commitment to ensuring quality and transparency in development projects, Punjab Mandi Board Secretary, Mr. Ramvir, conducted a review of ongoing development works in Sangrur district today.

He was accompanied by Mr. Dalvir Singh Dhillon, Chairman of Punjab Small Industries and Export Corporation; Mr. Rajwant Singh Ghulli, Chairman of Market Committee, Dhuri; Mr. Gurinder Singh Cheema, Chief Engineer, Punjab Mandi Board; and other officials.

During his visit, he inspected the construction of the new Sub-Divisional Hospital and Mother-Child Hospital in Dhuri, various link roads, and the ongoing work of grain market in village Satauj.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has advocated the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for need-based construction of rural roads to optimize the use of public funds. He noted that smart road surveys conducted across the state have saved ₹383 crore by leveraging technology to transform sectors such as education, policing, and agriculture.

He instructed Punjab Mandi Board officials to prioritize quality in all development projects. He stressed the urgent need to strengthen and upgrade rural roads to facilitate smoother commuting for residents. The strategy for road construction has been meticulously planned, with priority given to roads that have not been repaired or rebuilt in over six years.

Highlighting the state’s shift toward smart governance, Mr. Ramvir stated that technology, transparency, and accountability are reshaping Punjab’s administration. Previously, crores of rupees were spent on road repairs without proper scrutiny. For the first time, a comprehensive AI-based survey, combined with videography, was conducted across the state, examining 3,369 roads. Of these, 843 were found to be in good condition, saving ₹383 crore. These savings will now be redirected toward public welfare projects, eliminating unnecessary tenders and corrupt practices.

He announced that similar inspections will be conducted across the state to uphold quality and transparency. He further directed that berms (sidewalks) must be constructed alongside roads to ensure safety and accessibility.

Chairman Dalvir Singh Dhillon said that Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has urged contractors to maintain high standards in development and construction works. Contractors are now required to maintain roads and buildings for five years after project completion, ensuring long-term accountability.

He emphasized that the Chief Minister has approved the use of AI for the strategic development of rural roads, ensuring efficient utilization of resources while delivering high-quality infrastructure. This innovative approach is set to revolutionize road construction by significantly reducing costs. He added that the state government has decided to upgrade, reinforce, and widen rural roads to enhance connectivity across Punjab.

Mr Rajwant Singh Ghulli appealed to residents to provide honest feedback on the quality of materials used in construction projects, emphasizing that public funds belong to the people.