Puducherry, March 1 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially inaugurated and laid the groundwork for an extensive range of development initiatives totaling Rs 2,700 crore in Puducherry, representing one of the most significant infrastructure advancements for the union territory in recent history.

The projects encompass urban mobility, rural connectivity, industrial growth, education, healthcare, and sustainable development, with an emphasis on promoting balanced growth throughout various regions.

In his address, the Prime Minister affirmed the government's dedication to enhancing both urban and rural infrastructure.

He underscored the construction of numerous rural roads to aid farmers and small enterprises, while also stressing the measures being implemented to alleviate traffic congestion within Puducherry town.

"I am thrilled to be among the wonderful people of Puducherry. Today, we are launching several development initiatives that will improve the quality of life and stimulate economic growth in the region," he stated.

One of the key announcements included a Rs 140-crore flyover project designed to enhance traffic flow and connectivity.

A series of urban development projects were also initiated, such as the launch of e-buses under the PM e-Bus Seva Initiative and the establishment of the Integrated Command and Control Centre as part of the Smart City Mission.

Housing units for the Economically Weaker Sections were introduced under the CITIIS programme, along with significant sewerage and drinking water initiatives dedicated to the public.

In the realms of education and healthcare, the Prime Minister inaugurated the Composite Engineering Block -- Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Block -- and the Ganga Hostel at the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Karaikal.

He also announced the modernization of the Regional Cancer Centre at JIPMER and the addition of new academic and hostel facilities at Pondicherry University.

A major highlight was the dedication of the 750-acre Karasur-Sedarapet Industrial Estate, which is set to accommodate a Pharma Park, Textile Park, IT Park, an IIT Madras research and development center, and advanced healthcare facilities associated with JIPMER.

The Prime Minister also laid the foundation for water supply projects aimed at ensuring safe drinking water, alongside 41 rural roads under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana.

Projects under the MISHTI mangrove restoration initiative, Heritage Town development, and various sanitation, drainage, and power distribution works under the RDSS scheme, along with capital investment projects under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) scheme were also announced.

The Centre's decision to extend the SASCI scheme to Puducherry is anticipated to significantly enhance infrastructure development and public utility services in the Union Territory.