PM Narendra Modi Unveils Rs 6,350 Crore Railway Projects in Raigarh, Chhattisgarh

• Foundation Stone Laid for 50-Bed Critical Care Blocks in 9 Districts,
• Distribution of 1 Lakh Sickle Cell Counseling Cards,
• Prime Minister Emphasizes Equal Development Across the Nation,
• Chhattisgarh’s Growth Potential Recognized,
• Environmentally Conscious Approach Highlighted*

TFP Bureau, Raigarh; Sep 14, 2023: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi dedicated several pivotal railway projects worth approximately Rs 6,350 crore in Raigarh, Chhattisgarh, today. These projects include the Chhattisgarh East Rail Project Phase-I, the third rail line between Champa and Jamga, the third rail line between Pendra Road and Anuppur, and the Merry-Go-Round (MGR) system connecting the Talaipalli Coal Mine to NTPC Lara Super Thermal Power Station (STPS).

During the ceremony, Prime Minister Modi also laid the foundation stone for 50-bed ‘critical care blocks’ in nine districts of Chhattisgarh and distributed 1 lakh sickle cell counseling cards to the screened population. These initiatives reflect the government’s commitment to infrastructure development and healthcare improvements in the region.

In his address, Prime Minister Modi highlighted Chhattisgarh’s significant strides in development, with the introduction of railway projects exceeding Rs 6,400 crores. He emphasized that the state is witnessing an expansion in energy production capacity and advancements in healthcare. The distribution of Sickle Cell Counseling Cards further underscores the government’s commitment to addressing critical health concerns.

The Prime Minister acknowledged the global recognition of India’s rapid modern development and its unique model of social welfare. He cited the recent G20 Summit in New Delhi, where world leaders praised India’s development model. International organizations are now looking to India’s achievements as examples of success. Prime Minister Modi attributed this success to the government’s unwavering commitment to equal development across all states and regions.

“Chhattisgarh is a powerhouse of development in the country,” Prime Minister Modi declared, emphasizing that a nation can progress only when its powerhouses are functioning at full capacity. He commended the Central Government’s continuous efforts over the last nine years to foster multifaceted development in Chhattisgarh. Large-scale schemes are being implemented in various sectors, and foundation stones are being laid for new projects, further bolstering the state’s growth.

बीते 9 वर्षों में हमने छत्तीसगढ़ के बहुमुखी विकास के लिए निरंतर काम किया है। pic.twitter.com/3VrChiUn49

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) September 14, 2023

The Prime Minister’s previous visit to Raipur in July included the foundation stone-laying for the Visakhapatnam to Raipur Economic Corridor and the Raipur to Dhanbad Economic Corridor development projects. He also highlighted the establishment of essential national highways in the state.

Today marks a new chapter in the development of Chhattisgarh’s railway network, as these projects will alleviate congestion on the Bilaspur-Mumbai rail line’s Jharsuguda Bilaspur section. The expansion of rail lines and construction of rail corridors will not only benefit Chhattisgarh’s citizens but also create employment opportunities and boost income in the region.

Prime Minister Modi emphasized the reduction in transportation costs and time for coal movement from coalfields to power plants. The government’s efforts also include the construction of a Pit Head Thermal Power Plant, ensuring maximum electricity production at minimal costs. The inauguration of the 65 km Merry-Go-Round project connecting the Talaipalli Mine is part of a broader initiative that will benefit states like Chhattisgarh by enhancing coal transportation.

The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of preserving the environment while meeting the country’s energy needs. He mentioned the transformation of a closed coal mine in Surajpur district into an eco-tourism destination and the development of a similar eco-park in Korwa. He highlighted the benefits provided to the tribal population through irrigation and drinking water facilities generated from the mines.

The railway and healthcare projects being launched in Chhattisgarh will give impetus to the state's socioeconomic development. https://t.co/EE8eIg9HQN

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 14, 2023

Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting forests and land while exploring new avenues of prosperity through forest wealth. The Vandhan Vikas Yojana is benefitting countless tribal youth, and the market for millets, known as Shree Anna, holds significant potential for growth. These initiatives not only preserve India’s tribal traditions but also contribute to progress.

Sickle cell anemia is a critical concern among tribal populations, and the distribution of sickle cell counseling cards represents a substantial step toward disease control. The Prime Minister concluded his address by stressing the importance of moving forward with the resolve of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’ (Together with All, Development for All), expressing confidence that Chhattisgarh will reach new heights of development.

The ceremony was attended by Union Minister of State for Tribal Affairs, Smt Renuka Singh Saruta, and Deputy Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh, Shri T S Singhdeo, among other dignitaries.

Key Railway Projects in Chhattisgarh:

Chhattisgarh East Rail Project Phase-I:- A 124.8 km rail line from Kharsia to Dharamjaygarh, including a spur line to Gare-Pelma and feeder lines connecting Chhal, Baroud, Durgapur, and other coal mines. Built at a cost of approximately Rs. 3,055 crore.

Third Rail Line Between Pendra Road and Anuppur:- A 50 km-long rail line costing about Rs. 516 crore.

Third Rail Line Between Champa and Jamga:- A 98 km-long rail section built at a cost of about Rs. 796 crore.

Merry-Go-Round (MGR) System:– A 65 km-long electrified MGR system connecting Talaipalli Coal Mine to NTPC Lara Super Thermal Power Station. Built at a cost of over Rs. 2,070 crore, it will enhance coal transportation efficiency and power generation.

Healthcare and Welfare Initiatives:

Critical Care Blocks:- Foundation stones laid for 50-bed ‘critical care blocks’ in 9 districts of Chhattisgarh under Pradhan Mantri – Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission, with a total cost exceeding Rs. 210 crore.

Sickle Cell Counseling Cards:- Distribution of 1 lakh sickle cell counseling cards to the screened population as part of the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission (NSAEM).

Prime Minister Modi’s visit underscores the government’s commitment to holistic development, healthcare improvements, and environmental consciousness in Chhattisgarh, propelling the state toward a brighter future.