Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari inaugurated the two-lane Ram Setu overbridge in Balotra city, Rajasthan, at a cost of INR 102 crore. The dedication ceremony, led by Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, took place virtually on Sunday, with CM Sharma and Deputy CM Diya Kumari participating through video conference.
The event, attended by Minister of State for Industry and Commerce Krishna Kumar Vishnoi, Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmer Welfare Kailash Choudhary, District Collector Sushil Kumar Yadav, SP Harishankar, public representatives, social activists, media, and district residents, marked a significant milestone in infrastructure development.
CM Sharma credited the road expansion in Rajasthan to the efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari. He commended Union MoS for Agriculture Choudhary for his development works in the area. The newly inaugurated Ram Setu overbridge in Balotra city is expected to enhance travel to Jasol, Nakoda, and Brahm Dham.
Highlighting PM Modi’s commitment to strengthening the highway network in Rajasthan, Sharma noted the construction of roads, including those allowing emergency airplane landings.
Gadkari emphasized the role of road construction in creating employment opportunities and contributing to the development of agriculture and the economy. The virtual inauguration signifies a significant step in improving infrastructure and connectivity in the region.
The Chief Minister, participating via video conferencing from his official residence, highlighted the immediate benefits that the ‘Ram Setu’ railway overbridge would bring to Balotra. Emphasizing the significance of this construction, Sharma pointed out that it would alleviate traffic congestion at level crossings in Balotra, thereby enhancing safety and reducing the risk of accidents caused by heavy vehicles passing through the city.
In addition to improving safety, the overbridge is expected to simplify commuting for the common man, especially in reaching the railway station, ultimately saving valuable time for residents. The enhanced transportation infrastructure is anticipated to facilitate smoother travel for both the residents of Balotra and those in the surrounding areas.
CM Sharma also underscored the positive impact on religious tourism, noting that the overbridge’s construction would facilitate the movement of devotees visiting religious places such as Jasol Dham, Nakoda, and Brahmadham Yatra. This development is poised to contribute to the ease and convenience of travel for pilgrims and tourists alike.