PM Modi Launches and Commences Major Railway Initiatives Across India
Click to start listening
New Delhi, Jan 6 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday launched and laid the groundwork for several railway initiatives via video conferencing, further enhancing India's railway infrastructure.
Union Minister of Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Manjhi, Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu were also present at the virtual event.
Among the significant projects, PM Modi inaugurated the new Jammu Railway Division, a key advancement for improved connectivity in the area. He also opened the Charlapalli New Terminal Station in Telangana and laid the foundation stone for the Rayagada Railway Division Building of the East Coast Railway.
During the event, the Prime Minister emphasized the progress India is making in connectivity, recalling his recent journey on the Namo Bharat train in the Delhi-NCR region and the expansion of Delhi Metro projects.
"This is a notable accomplishment. The metro network in India has surpassed 1,000 kilometers," he stated.
Describing it as a "significant day for India's new age connectivity," PM Modi underscored the collective advancement of the nation, indicating that these projects embody the philosophy of "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas" and the vision of a "Viksit Bharat". He congratulated the citizens on the initiation of these transformative projects.
The Prime Minister noted the remarkable changes in Indian Railways over the last decade, highlighting tangible improvements in infrastructure, services, and connectivity.
"The development of Indian Railways is vital for realizing the vision of a Viksit Bharat," he asserted.
He discussed four crucial areas for railway enhancement: modernization of infrastructure, improved amenities for passengers, better connectivity nationwide, and job creation.
"Today's occasion symbolizes this vision, significantly contributing to transforming Indian Railways into a contemporary 21st-century transportation system," he remarked.
Highlighting high-speed trains like Vande Bharat, Amrit Bharat, and Namo Bharat, PM Modi stated that these services have set new standards for Indian Railways.
He mentioned that Vande Bharat trains are operational on over 50 routes, with 136 services running at speeds of 180 km per hour, facilitating easier travel for millions.
"The day is not far when the first bullet train will operate in India," he added.
The Prime Minister revealed that the electrification of railway lines has surged from 35 percent in 2014 to nearly total electrification today. He also pointed out the construction of over 30,000 kilometers of new tracks and numerous bridges to enhance safety over the last decade.
"The 'Kayakalp' initiative has led to remarkable transformations in Indian Railways. With the support of 'Make in India', modern coaches are being produced for metro and railway services, and railway stations are being revamped with solar panels and 'One Station One Product' stalls, generating millions of job opportunities," he explained.
Discussing the Gati Shakti National Master Plan for Multi-modal Connectivity, the Prime Minister emphasized its significance in enhancing India's logistics and trade.
He also praised projects in Jammu and Kashmir, including the Chinnar Bridge, the world's tallest railway arch bridge, and the Anji Khad Bridge, the nation's first cable-stayed railway bridge.
Focusing on Odisha, PM Modi stated that the state has immense potential for international trade due to its natural resources and coastline. He cited ongoing projects valued at over Rs 70,000 crore, including seven Gati Shakti cargo terminals, all of which are boosting trade and industry in the region.
PM Modi commended the development of the Charlapalli New Terminal Station in Telangana, featuring modern platforms, lifts, and escalators, and powered by solar energy. He noted its strategic link to the Outer Ring Road, which will accelerate regional growth.
The establishment of the Jammu Railway Division, covering 742.1 kilometers across several sections, will benefit Jammu and Kashmir by enhancing employment, tourism, and overall socio-economic development. Likewise, the Rayagada Railway Division Building will improve connectivity in Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and surrounding regions, encouraging local development.
"Since 2014, the number of airports in the country has risen from 74 to over 150, and metro services now operate in 21 cities, compared to just five previously. Indian Railways is continuously upgrading to keep pace with this growth and speed. All these development initiatives are part of the roadmap for a Viksit Bharat," he concluded.
