Centre Sanctions ₹375.71 Cr for 100 Bridges to Boost Chhattisgarh Connectivity

In a landmark move to enhance rural infrastructure and bridge connectivity gaps in tribal and remote regions, the Central Government has approved ₹375.71 crore for the construction of 100 new bridges and associated infrastructure in Chhattisgarh. The funding comes under PM Janman Batch-II (2025–26) and was formally conveyed during a meeting in New Delhi between Union Minister for Rural Development, Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Chhattisgarh Deputy Chief Minister Shri Vijay Sharma.

Senior officials from the Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD) were also present during the handing-over of the approval letter, which marks a significant step toward infrastructure-led development in tribal-dominated and geographically isolated areas of the state.

₹375.71 Crore Sanctioned for 100 Bridges Spanning Over 6,500 Meters

According to the approval, the 100 sanctioned bridges will collectively cover a total length of 6,569.56 meters, with an estimated cost of ₹375.71 crore. These bridges will be constructed in some of the most remote and underserved parts of Chhattisgarh, including areas inhabited by Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs).

This development adds to the state’s existing approvals under the PMGSY (Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana) and related schemes. With the latest sanction, Chhattisgarh has now received clearance for a total of 715 roads covering 2,449.108 km and 100 bridges.

Empowering PVTG Communities and Enhancing Rural Mobility

Union Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan emphasized that the construction of these bridges is aimed at bridging the physical and socio-economic divide that continues to isolate tribal communities. The infrastructure is expected to have far-reaching impact in ensuring that government welfare schemes reach PVTG populations, many of whom reside in inaccessible forested and hilly terrains.

“The goal is to improve last-mile connectivity, enhance access to healthcare, education, and markets, and bring these regions into the fold of a Viksit Bharat (Developed India),” said Shri Chouhan.

PM Janman Scheme: A Dedicated Framework for Tribal Upliftment

The PM Janman Yojana is a central initiative designed specifically to improve infrastructure and living standards in tribal regions, especially for PVTGs. The scheme supports the construction of roads, bridges, schools, healthcare centres, and housing units in remote districts, focusing on inclusive growth and social integration.

The approval for bridge construction under PM Janman Batch-II highlights the government's continued emphasis on rural development, connectivity, and tribal welfare.

State Government Encouraged to Expedite Implementation

Addressing Chhattisgarh’s Deputy Chief Minister, Shri Chouhan expressed confidence that the state government will implement the projects efficiently, adhering to quality and timelines. He urged the state administration to fast-track tendering and execution so that the benefits of connectivity reach the intended communities without delay.

He also emphasized the importance of monitoring construction standards and encouraged the use of locally available materials and manpower, which would generate rural employment and ensure sustainability.

Discussions on Rice Storage, Panchayat Infrastructure, and Rural Housing

Beyond bridge construction, the high-level meeting also covered critical rural development priorities for Chhattisgarh. Topics of discussion included:

• Alternative solutions for rice storage, especially given the state’s significant contribution to the Central Pool.

• Strengthening infrastructure at the rural and panchayat levels to improve service delivery.

• Survey-based strategies for identifying and approving new housing units under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana–Gramin (PMAY-G).

• Forward-looking strategies to enhance rural resilience and productivity.

These discussions reflect the Centre’s comprehensive approach to supporting state governments in holistic rural development.

Transforming Infrastructure into Development Pathways

Chhattisgarh’s Deputy Chief Minister Shri Vijay Sharma welcomed the Centre’s gesture, calling it a significant boost to the state’s development roadmap, particularly in tribal regions. He assured that the state would coordinate with district-level agencies to begin construction at the earliest.

The new bridges, once completed, are expected to open up new trade routes, reduce travel time, improve emergency response capabilities, and connect isolated habitations to mainstream development networks.

Connecting the Last Mile for an Inclusive Bharat

The sanction of ₹375.71 crore for bridge construction is not just a financial allocation—it is a strategic investment in India’s inclusive growth narrative. By empowering remote tribal communities through better roads and bridges, the government is laying down the physical and symbolic foundation for integration, opportunity, and empowerment.

As India progresses toward its ‘Viksit Bharat’ vision, infrastructure initiatives like this one will be pivotal in uplifting those who have historically been left behind.