Ropar: Punjab minister Harbhajan Singh ETO on Monday laid the foundation stone of a new 111.24-metre high-level steel bridge to be constructed over the Sirhind Canal in Ropar, replacing the old bridge considered a lifeline of the Ropar main market. The construction work was formally initiated by the Punjab Cabinet minister as well.Sharing details, ETO said that the bridge, being constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 16.38 crore, would significantly strengthen the infrastructure of Ropar (Rupnagar) city. Besides streamlining traffic, the bridge would play an important role in boosting local commercial activities. He said the project fulfils a long-pending and important requirement of the people of the city.The minister said that the bridge over the Sirhind Canal is a crucial link connecting the Rupnagar market with different parts of the city. The existing bridge, constructed in 1884-85, is being replaced with a modern bridge that will not only improve traffic flow, but also provide a more convenient and safer mode of transportation for people who travel through the area every day. ETO said that the construction of the new bridge would provide major relief to visitors and traders coming to the Ropar market. It would give fresh impetus to commercial activities in the city while further strengthening Rupnagar’s infrastructure.Ropar MLA Dinesh Chadha said that by fulfilling this long-pending demand of the people of Ropar, the govt had given a major gift to the residents of the city.
