Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for an array of development projects worth Rs 7,200 crore in Arambagh, situated in West Bengal’s Hooghly district. The projects span diverse sectors including rail, ports, oil pipeline, LPG supply, and wastewater treatment.
In his address, PM Modi underscored India’s rapid strides in the 21st century and reiterated the nation’s commitment to achieving full development by 2047. He emphasized the government’s dedication to empowering various segments of society, including youth, women, farmers, and the underprivileged, highlighting the tangible impact of policies in lifting 25 crore people out of poverty.
Highlighting the significance of the inaugurated projects, valued at over Rs 7,000 crore, PM Modi stressed their role in accelerating West Bengal’s development across multiple fronts including rail infrastructure, ports, petroleum, and water resources. He underscored efforts to modernize the state’s railways, citing initiatives such as the third rail line connecting Jhargram – Salgajhari and the doubling of key rail routes.
PM Modi commended India’s ability to pursue development while safeguarding the environment, citing projects like the Haldia-Barauni crude oil pipeline. He also emphasized the far-reaching benefits of initiatives such as the LPG bottling plant and sewage treatment plants, which will serve multiple states and enhance living standards for lakhs of people.
Addressing the employment potential generated by infrastructure projects, PM Modi revealed a substantial budget allocation of over Rs 13,000 crore for railway development in West Bengal. He outlined completed projects from the past decade, including railway electrification, station redevelopment, new train services, and the introduction of Vande Bharat Express trains.
Expressing confidence in achieving the goals of a developed India with the support of West Bengal’s people, PM Modi extended his best wishes for the success of the projects.
Dignitaries present at the event included West Bengal Governor Dr. C V Ananda Bose and Union Minister of State for Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Shantanu Thakur.