Siliguri (West Bengal): In a significant development aimed at bolstering connectivity and fostering development in West Bengal, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated several key projects in Siliguri on Saturday, as a part of the ‘Viksit Bharat Viksit West Bengal’ programme. The projects, totalling over Rs 4,500 crores, primarily focus on enhancing rail and road infrastructure in the state.
Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Modi expressed his delight at being in the picturesque land of tea and hailed the unveiled projects as another stride towards the progress of West Bengal.
He emphasized the strategic importance of Northern West Bengal, describing it as the gateway to the Northeast and a crucial trade conduit with neighboring countries. Consequently, the government has prioritized the development of both West Bengal and its Northern region.
Watch PM Modi’s address here:
Addressing a programme at the launch of development works in Siliguri. https://t.co/9ss9hqhcFF
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 9, 2024
Among the unveiled projects, electrification of key rail lines such as Eklakhi – Balurghat, Raninagar Jalpaiguri – Haldibari, and Siliguri – Aluabari sections were highlighted.
This move is expected to augment train speeds and reduce pollution, particularly benefiting North and South Dinajpur, Cooch Behar, and Jalpaiguri. Additionally, electrification of the Barsoi – Radhikapur section promises significant benefits for both Bihar and West Bengal.
Prime Minister Modi also flagged off a new train service between Radhikapur and Siliguri, underscoring the transformative impact of enhanced rail connectivity on regional development and the lives of citizens. He reiterated the government’s commitment to maintaining consistent train speeds across the nation and announced the introduction of modern, high-speed trains.
Furthermore, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of international connectivity, highlighting the Mitali Express service between New Jalpaiguri and Dhaka Cantt in collaboration with Bangladesh.
He assured continued efforts to strengthen rail links with Bangladesh, noting the extension of connectivity up to Radhikapur station.
Reflecting on historical neglect, Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed his government’s commitment to the growth of eastern India, citing unprecedented investments in improving regional connectivity. He disclosed a substantial increase in the railway budget for West Bengal, emphasizing the transition from passenger to express speed services and hinting at further acceleration in the future.
In addition to rail projects, Prime Minister Modi inaugurated two major road initiatives, including the four-laning of Ghoshpukur – Dhupguri Section of NH 27 and the Islampur Bypass. These projects are poised to alleviate traffic congestion in cities like Jalpaiguri, Siliguri, and Mainaguri, while facilitating easier access to tourist destinations and boosting trade and industry.
As the event concluded, Prime Minister Modi assured the citizens of West Bengal of the central government’s unwavering commitment to the state’s development. The presence of distinguished dignitaries including Governor C V Ananda Bose, Union Minister of States Nisith Pramanik, and Members of Parliament underscored the significance of the occasion in the regional development landscape.
Read all the World News, Business News, Sports News, Entertainment News, Business News and Opinion here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
