Thiruvananthapuram: The Union surface transport ministry on Wednesday sanctioned Rs 333 crore for road strengthening works in various National Highway stretches in the state, following a recent high-level meeting in New Delhi.
Every year it is at the fag end of the year the ministry earmarks central funds for NH strengthening works which include the maintenance.
The only demand put forth by the ministry officials was that public works department (PWD) should ensure that the Central funds are utilised before the southwest monsoon in June.
A top government source told DC that another Rs 70 crore has also been sanctioned for surface laying works. “We had demanded Rs 1,800 crore towards NH strengthening. We have to enter into a formal agreement before March 31 next year to complete the works before the rainy season begins,” he said. The PWD officials said the Union ministry would release more funds in a phased manner.
