Ahmedabad, March 14 (NationPress) In a significant move for development, Bharuch district in Gujarat has been allocated projects totaling approximately Rs 1,350 crore. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel officially inaugurated and laid the groundwork for 139 initiatives spanning various sectors including infrastructure, transportation, sports, and public service facilities.

The ceremony took place at the Swaminarayan temple complex in Zadeshwar, where Patel launched 66 projects worth Rs 102 crore and initiated the foundation stones for 73 projects valued at Rs 1,248.57 crore, culminating in a total investment of Rs 1,350.68 crore.

Among the key projects announced was the foundation stone for the Ankleshwar–Rajpipla high-speed corridor and Air Strip Phase-II, both aimed at enhancing connectivity within the district.

This 44-km Ankleshwar–Rajpipla corridor will be developed into a high-speed route at an estimated cost of Rs 760 crore, facilitating smoother travel to the Statue of Unity and improving overall regional connectivity.

The state government has also commenced airport development in Ankleshwar to better connect industrial sectors such as Bharuch, Ankleshwar, Dahej, and Saykha.

During his address, Patel emphasized the government's commitment to ensuring that funding for development projects remains uninterrupted.

“With the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the state government has strategically planned to avoid any financial shortfalls for essential projects across education, healthcare, transportation, agriculture, and industry,” he stated.

Patel highlighted that the initiatives launched would significantly enhance the quality of life for local residents.

According to him, the projects span critical areas such as infrastructure, transport, education, healthcare, and sports.

The Chief Minister also reflected on Gujarat’s fiscal growth over the last two decades.

“In 2001, the state budget was Rs 36,000 crore, which has now surpassed Rs 4 lakh crore,” he noted, asserting that development-focused policies have bolstered the state's economic strength.

As part of enhancing sports infrastructure, a new district sports complex is set to be established in Bharuch, which Patel mentioned would cater to the aspirations of over 200,000 youth.

“Such facilities will create opportunities for talented individuals, especially with Ahmedabad gearing up to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games,” he said.

The district stands to gain from ongoing industrial projects as well. Patel pointed out that in Jambusar, part of Bharuch district, the country’s first bulk drugs park is being developed over approximately 1,000 acres in a region known globally as a hub for the chemical industry.

Additional initiatives include new commercial shopping centers and rest houses planned in Bharuch, Netrang, Rajpardi, and Jambusar, with an investment of Rs 50 crore, aimed at supporting local commerce and accommodating visitors.

For pilgrims on the Narmada Parikrama, eight rest halls will be constructed in various locations throughout Bharuch and Jhagadia to enhance amenities along the pilgrimage route.

To improve administrative service delivery, four renovated ‘Jan Seva Kendras’ have been inaugurated by the Revenue Department at a cost of Rs 1.17 crore, providing accessible government services to citizens.

In rural areas, 64 new panchayat houses have been established to strengthen local governance.

“Bharuch has been designated as part of the Surat Economic Region (SER) Hub, with Rs 1,185 crore recently approved for road infrastructure in the area,” he elaborated.

He noted that enhanced road networks, logistics facilities, and connectivity projects are expected to drive the industrial growth of the district.

“The projects launched and inaugurated today are vital to fortifying infrastructure and services, ultimately supporting the long-term development of Bharuch district,” he concluded.