Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated a series of development projects valued at over Rs 17,300 crores in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, on Wednesday, marking a significant stride towards enhancing the region’s socio-economic landscape.
One of the key initiatives inaugurated by PM Modi is the Outer Harbor Container Terminal at V.O. Chidambaranar Port, aimed at transforming the port into a transhipment hub for the east coast. This strategic move is will boost India’s global trade competitiveness, capitalize on the nation’s extensive coastline, and create employment opportunities while stimulating economic growth.
In a significant step towards embracing sustainable energy solutions, PM Modi launched India’s first indigenous green hydrogen fuel cell inland waterway vessel under the Harit Nauka initiative. Manufactured by Cochin Shipyard, this vessel signifies India’s commitment to sustainable development and aligns with the nation’s net-zero emissions goals.
Additionally, the Prime Minister inaugurated tourist facilities in 75 lighthouses across 10 states/Union territories, aiming to enhance coastal heritage and promote tourism infrastructure.
Railway projects for the doubling of the Vanchi Maniyachchi – Nagercoil rail line, including the Vanchi Maniyachchi – Tirunelveli section and Melappalayam – Aralvaymoli section, were also inaugurated. These projects, developed at an approximate cost of Rs 1,477 crore, are set to improve connectivity and reduce travel time for trains traveling towards Chennai from Kanyakumari, Nagercoil, and Tirunelveli.
Furthermore, PM Modi unveiled four road projects in Tamil Nadu, totaling about Rs 4,586 crore. These projects include the four-laning of the Jittandahalli-Dharmapuri section of NH-844, two-laning with paved shoulders of the Meensurutti-Chidambaram section of NH-81, four-laning of the Oddanchatram-Madathukulam section of NH-83, and two-laning with paved shoulders of the Nagapattinam-Thanjavur section of NH-83. These endeavors aim to improve connectivity, reduce travel time, spur socio-economic growth, and facilitate pilgrimage visits in the region.
Addressing the gathering, PM Modi highlighted Tamil Nadu’s pivotal role in India’s development journey and reiterated the government’s commitment to fulfilling the aspirations of its people. He emphasized the significant progress made in various sectors, including railways, roads, and maritime infrastructure, underscoring the government’s focus on enhancing connectivity and promoting economic growth.
The ceremony was attended by dignitaries including the Governor of Tamil Nadu, R N Ravi, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, and Union Minister of State, Dr. L Murugan, among others.