Is West Bengal Ready for PM Modi's Exciting Rally?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- PM Modi's rally in Durgapur ignites local enthusiasm.
- Development projects worth over Rs 5,000 crore are set to launch.
- Community service highlighted by local residents.
- Key infrastructure upgrades in multiple sectors.
- Expectations for improved quality of life in the region.
Durgapur, July 18 (NationPress) The highly anticipated rally of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Durgapur, West Bengal, on Friday has ignited a wave of excitement among residents and supporters, transforming the city into a vibrant celebration. Thousands gathered in hopes of seeing the Prime Minister, who is expected to launch a series of developmental initiatives exceeding Rs 5,000 crore in West Bengal.
As crowds filled the streets, the spirit of community service shone brightly. Local resident Dev Prasad Hazra generously provided free rides in his electric rickshaw for attendees.
“Even if we don’t get to see PM Modi up close, at least others should be able to. That’s why I’m doing this service,” he remarked.
This rally, part of PM Modi’s dual visit to Bihar and West Bengal, signifies a major drive for infrastructure development across both regions.
While Bihar received projects worth Rs 7,200 crore, West Bengal’s share includes essential upgrades in oil and gas, power, road, and rail sectors.
IANS spoke with several attendees, capturing the atmosphere of excitement and pride.
A resident from Durgapur expressed, “I am here to see PM Modi. We are thrilled he will be visiting our city. He will inaugurate many important projects that will create new opportunities for the people in our region.”
Another shared, “It’s a proud moment for West Bengal. These projects will benefit everyone and enhance our lives.”
Among the major announcements expected today is the Rs 1,950 crore City Gas Distribution (CGD) project by Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd (BPCL), aimed at improving the oil and gas infrastructure in the Bankura and Purulia districts.
This project aims to provide Piped Natural Gas (PNG) to households, businesses, and industrial units, along with Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) at retail stations.
PM Modi will also dedicate to the nation the 132-km Durgapur to Kolkata section of the Durgapur-Haldia Natural Gas Pipeline, alongside the Bokaro-Dhamra stretch — both components of the ambitious Pradhan Mantri Urja Ganga (PMUG) initiative.
In the energy sector, he will inaugurate the Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) systems at the Durgapur Steel Thermal Power Station and Raghunathpur Thermal Power Station under the Damodar Valley Corporation, worth over Rs 1,457 crore, aimed at reducing pollution and fostering cleaner energy.
Rail connectivity will also receive a boost with the dedication of the 36-km doubled Purulia–Kotshila rail line, valued at Rs 390 crore. This will enhance freight movement and strengthen connections between industrial hubs like Jamshedpur, Bokaro, and Dhanbad with key urban centers such as Ranchi and Kolkata.
Additionally, PM Modi will inaugurate two road over bridges (ROBs) constructed under the Setu Bharatam scheme, worth over Rs 380 crore, further alleviating traffic congestion and improving road infrastructure in the region.