Chandigarh, September 7, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Punjab Public Works Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO has directed departmental officers to conduct a comprehensive structural safety audit of all government buildings, bridges, culverts and other bridge structures under the jurisdiction of the Public Works Department across the state.
The Minister said the Punjab Government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, has accorded top priority to public safety and the welfare of citizens. He said the exercise is aimed at ensuring timely maintenance, strengthening and safety of public infrastructure.
Harbhajan Singh ETO directed field officers to carry out a detailed assessment of the structural condition of government buildings and identify any defects, faults or weaknesses. Necessary preventive measures, repairs or rehabilitation works must be undertaken on a priority basis.
He made it clear that buildings already declared unsafe must not be used under any circumstances until the required corrective work is completed and the structures are re-declared safe.
The Minister also ordered safety inspections of all bridges, culverts and other bridge structures under the department. If any structure is found to be unsafe, immediate traffic restrictions or other appropriate safety measures must be put in place until the required repairs or rehabilitation are completed.
He further directed that no alteration, modification, strengthening, widening, demolition or other work that could affect the structural integrity of any government building, bridge or culvert be undertaken without prior approval from the competent authority. Such works must comply with applicable rules, technical codes and departmental instructions.
Taking a strict view of safety violations, Harbhajan Singh ETO warned that negligence or carelessness in implementing safety norms would not be tolerated. Strict departmental action would be taken against officers found responsible for lapses.
The Minister reiterated the Punjab Government’s commitment to developing safe, strong and sustainable public infrastructure and said all necessary measures would be taken to protect the lives and safety of people.
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