Meerut, Feb 22 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a pointed critique of the Opposition on Sunday, denouncing their tactics as “toxic politics” and highlighting the BJP's commitment to India's development and the pursuit of ‘Aatmabirbharta’ (self-reliance).

During the inauguration of development initiatives valued at approximately Rs 12,930 crore in Meerut, the Prime Minister also launched the Meerut Metro and the Namo Bharat train at Shatabdi Nagar Namo Bharat Station, significantly enhancing the government's objectives for improved regional connectivity and urban transport in the National Capital Region (NCR).

In front of a large audience in Meerut, PM Modi stated, “In this sacred land of Baba Augharnath and the revolutionary Meerut, today marks a renewed commitment to a developed Bharat and Uttar Pradesh. With the commencement of both the Meerut Metro and the Namo Bharat train, we are witnessing a splendid manifestation of future connectivity in a developed Bharat.”

“The Metro enhances internal connectivity, while the Namo Bharat train accelerates the vision for twin cities. I am thrilled that this progress is happening in Uttar Pradesh,” he remarked.

The Prime Minister attributed the successful launch of these initiatives to the “BJP's double-engine government,” asserting, “Our work ethic dictates that once a project is initiated, we strive relentlessly to see it through. Unlike in previous times, these schemes are moving forward without disruption.”

Reflecting on his metro journey to Meerut South Station, PM Modi shared feedback from students and passengers who expressed that these developments were “unimaginable.”

“Women voiced their concerns about safety during nighttime travel, but now, improved law and order has made commuting safer,” he added.

“The Namo Bharat Rapid Rail has also emerged as a symbol of Nari Shakti, with many roles being fulfilled by our daughters,” he congratulated the people of Uttar Pradesh and Delhi for the Meerut Metro and Namo Bharat train.

“I hold a special connection to Meerut. My campaigns for the Lok Sabha elections in 2014, 2019, and 2024 began here. The support from farmers, industrialists, workers, and artisans has always been strong,” he expressed.

Targeting the Opposition, the Prime Minister remarked, “I had previously urged the SP, BSP, and Congress to abandon their toxic politics and engage in developmental discourse. While they have remained unchanged, the BJP has consistently prioritized India's growth, exemplified by the Meerut Metro.”

“Before 2014, metro development was sluggish. Under Congress, only five cities had metro connectivity. Today, under BJP governance, over 25 cities have initiated metro services, making India the third-largest metro network worldwide,” he added.

In the last 11 years, PM Modi highlighted that metro services have expanded to various cities, as the BJP government aims to offer service, high-speed connectivity, and hassle-free travel to the populace.

“During the Congress-SP era, such advancements were unattainable due to rampant corruption that hindered infrastructure projects. We not only halted the previous schemes but also propelled the nation towards Aatmabirbharta,” he concluded.