Chandigarh; 24th January 2026:
Punjab Government’s Cabinet Minister for Local Government, Sanjeev Arora announced the launch of the Bhagwant Mann government’s an ambitious World-Class Streets Project aimed at transforming Ludhiana’s urban landscape into a model of safe, inclusive, sustainable and smart mobility, stating that the initiative seeks to fundamentally reimagine how city streets function for people.
Sharing details of the project, Punjab Local Development Minister Sanjeev Arora said that 15 kilometres of roads across 10 critical city corridors will be comprehensively redeveloped under a modern Complete Streets approach, with priority being given to pedestrians, cyclists, public transport users and street vendors alongside vehicular traffic. “The objective is to reclaim streets for people. These streets will no longer be just traffic corridors but vibrant public spaces that are safe, accessible and environmentally sustainable,” the Minister said.
Outlining the key features of the project, the Local Development Minister said that it includes the development of 15 kilometres of world-class streets, 5.3 kilometres of dedicated accessible footpaths, and 15.7 kilometres of demarcated cycle lanes and dedicated cycle tracks. He said that 250 vending spaces will be created to support livelihoods, along with the installation of 40 rain and sun shelters, 10 public toilets and 36 water ATMs.
Emphasising the project’s green focus, he said there will be zero tree cutting, with plantation of more than 3,633 new trees, along with the creation of 54 rainwater harvesting pits as part of green infrastructure. He added that new storm water drainage, LED street lighting, landscaping and junction improvements will also be undertaken.
The Minister informed that the ₹162 crore project is being piloted by the Punjab Infrastructure Development Board, with the tendering process currently underway and implementation slated to be completed by the end of August. “The project will feature barrier-free design elements, including kerb ramps, tactile paving, zebra crossings and tabletop crossings, to ensure universal accessibility,” said the Minister.
Explaining the execution model, Sanjeev Arora said the project will be implemented under the Hybrid Annuity Model, which will ensure both high-quality construction and long-term maintenance. “The concessionaire will be responsible for upkeep during the maintenance phase, with annual operation and maintenance costs estimated at 2.5% of the construction cost,” he stated.
Highlighting the broader impact, the Minister said the project integrates sustainability through green infrastructure, encourages non-motorised transport and enhances road safety through improved signage, street furniture, dedicated parking, bicycle stands, police booths and city gateways. “Specific corridors, including Sherpur Chowk to Jagraon Bridge, Model Town Road, and Gill Canal Bridge to Gill Village, will be redeveloped with unique design themes reflecting Ludhiana’s identity and future aspirations,” he added.
Reiterating the larger vision behind the initiative, Minister Sanjeev Arora stated the project aligns with the Punjab Government’s goal of creating modern, people-friendly cities. “This project will significantly improve quality of life, reduce congestion, enhance road safety, support local businesses and position Ludhiana as a leading example of urban transformation in North India,” he said.
