Ahmedabad, Nov 30 (NationPress) The Gujarat government’s highly regarded ‘Swagat Online’ initiative continues to address long-standing grassroots challenges, with the small village of Moddar in Porbandar standing as the latest testament to its effectiveness.

Moddar, home to approximately 1,200 residents near Kutiyana, has faced difficulties for years due to the absence of a proper road and bridge for accessing the nearby town.

Upon raising their concerns with Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel during the Swagat program, the response was both prompt and impactful. The CM listened attentively to the villagers, recognized the legitimacy of their request, and approved a budget of Rs 9 crore for the development of a minor bridge, culverts, and a three-kilometre road linking Moddar to Passavari.

The rapid response left the villagers feeling emotional and thankful. “We met the Chief Minister, and just four days later, we received a call from his office confirming that our issue was resolved. The funds were allocated immediately. For a small village like ours, this is a game changer,” shared farmer Laxman Moddedra.

For decades, residents have had to travel nearly 20 kilometres through longer routes to reach Kutiyana, despite the riverbank being just across from their fields and homes. Over 100 farmers cultivate land on the opposite riverbank and often risk their safety by wading through water or crossing with livestock. “At times, people used inflated tubes to cross; there was always a fear of drowning,” Laxmanbhai recounted. In the Ghed region where the village is located, the river remains flooded for eight months each year, completely severing access.

The issue was first presented during a district-level Swagat session, after which the Porbandar Collector helped to reopen an old route. However, the villagers insisted that a bridge was crucial for a lasting solution—an appeal that was ultimately addressed through the CM’s intervention.

“This road will be our lifeline,” stated Ramesh Karangiya. “Children will reach school more quickly, farmers will access their fields safely, and patients can be transported to the hospital without delay. It will save lives.”

Maldhari resident Ranabhai Katara fondly remembers the Chief Minister’s warm reception. “We never anticipated that the work would be approved so swiftly. The CM genuinely listened to us and acted without delay. This brings us true satisfaction,” he expressed.

Initiated during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s tenure as Gujarat Chief Minister, the ‘Swagat Online’ program has transformed into a robust grievance redressal platform under the current leadership of CM Bhupendra Patel. For villages like Moddar, it represents more than just a digital governance initiative; it is a pathway to long-awaited progress and dignity.