Collector leads assessment of Salem's road development

In a recent press trip on December 12, 2023, Mr. S. Karmegam, the District Collector along with the officials of the District's Rural Development Department, led a review visit to oversee and assess the ongoing developmental endeavors within the Pethanayakkanpalayam Panchayat Union, Karumanturai South Nadu Panchayat.
Under the ambit of the Chief Minister's Village Roads Development Program, Salem District is witnessing a substantial enhancement in its road infrastructure. For the fiscal years 2022-23 and 2023-24, the district has embarked on an extensive plan for development and improvement a total road lenght of 443.99 kilometers within Salem District. To facilitate these road assignments, a significant allocation of funds amounting to 170.40 crores has been designated. 
During the visit, Mr. Karmegam shared with media persons the fact that under  the Chief Minister's Village Roads Development Program, various works are undertaken such as the enhancement of various road types, including the transition of untarred roads to tarred ones and the reinforcement and upkeep of existing tarred roads. Presently, about 155.27 kilometers of roads, at a cost of 42.60 crores, have been successfully completed, while the remainder is in various stages of construction. 
Moreover, not just confined to the general development initiatives, Salem District's focus on tribal areas is evident: Specifically, 37 road projects, covering a distance of 47.65 kilometers, are underway in the tribal regions of Salem District. These projects are being executed at an estimated cost of Rs. 20.12 crores under the Chief Minister's Rural Roads Development Scheme, said the collector. 
Highlighting the selection criteria for road inclusion under the scheme, Mr. Karmegam elaborated on factors such as connectivity between villages, schools, markets, and other essential facilities. He emphasized the funding source from State Finance Commission grant funds for this initiative and stressed upon the quality and timely completion of the works undertaken. 
The visit witnessed the presence of key officials including Dr. Alarmel Mangai, Additional Collector (Development) of the District Rural Development Agency, and Mr. K. Manickam, Thasildhar of Pethanayakkanpalayam, along with journalists.