PM Unveils ₹27,000 Crore Development Blitz in Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh
- Prime Minister Modi Inaugurates Key Infrastructure Initiatives
TFP2 Bureau, Jagdalpur; Oct 3, 2023: In a historic event, Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked a momentous day by laying the foundation stone and dedicating a series of transformative development projects worth approximately ₹27,000 crore in Jagdalpur, Bastar, Chhattisgarh. The diverse array of projects includes the prestigious inauguration of NMDC Steel Ltd’s state-of-the-art Steel Plant in Nagarnar, with a staggering investment exceeding ₹23,800 crores, and several pivotal railway and road sector initiatives. Additionally, the Prime Minister flagged off the Taroki – Raipur DEMU Train Service.
Fulfilling the Dream of Viksit Bharat:
Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Modi emphasized that the dream of a “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India) can only be realized when every state, district, and village in the country achieves development. He commended the people of Chhattisgarh for their contributions to these projects, which collectively amount to ₹27,000 crores. He stressed the need for a robust physical, social, and digital infrastructure that aligns with future requirements and highlighted a substantial six-fold increase in the infrastructure outlay for this year, amounting to ₹10 lakh crore.
Steel’s Role in National Growth:
Underlining the pivotal role of steel in numerous sectors, including rail, road, airport, power, transportation, housing, education, and healthcare, the Prime Minister noted that the government’s efforts over the past nine years have propelled India towards self-reliance in steel production. He highlighted that Chhattisgarh, as a major steel-producing state, is reaping the benefits of these endeavors. The inauguration of the cutting-edge steel plant in Nagarnar is set to invigorate India’s automobile, engineering, and defense manufacturing sectors. Prime Minister Modi expressed confidence that Bastar’s steel production will bolster the armed forces and contribute to India’s defense exports. He emphasized the significant employment opportunities this plant will offer to around 50,000 youths from Bastar and its neighboring regions.
Boosting Connectivity:
The Prime Minister discussed the government’s unwavering focus on connectivity, including economic corridors and modern highways in Chhattisgarh. He highlighted a remarkable 20-fold increase in Chhattisgarh’s railway budget compared to 2014. Taroki received a valuable gift of a new railway line after many years of independence, enabling easier travel to the capital, Raipur. Moreover, the rail line doubling project between Jagdalpur and Dantewada is expected to reduce logistics costs and enhance travel convenience.
Empowering Railway Infrastructure:
Prime Minister Modi expressed delight that Chhattisgarh has achieved 100% electrification of its railway tracks, and the Vande Bharat Train is now operational in the state. More than 30 stations in Chhattisgarh are currently undergoing upgrades under the Amrit Bharat Station Yojana. He unveiled plans to develop Jagdalpur station into a central hub for the city, with upgraded passenger facilities. The Prime Minister also noted the introduction of free Wi-Fi at over 120 stations in the state over the past nine years.
Enhancing Quality of Life:
Concluding his address, Prime Minister Modi assured that the government is diligently working to improve the lives of Chhattisgarh’s citizens. He envisioned that the projects launched on this day would accelerate development, create new employment opportunities, and stimulate emerging industries in the state. The Prime Minister pledged the continued support of the government in Chhattisgarh’s development journey, recognizing the state’s role in shaping the nation’s destiny. He extended his gratitude to Chhattisgarh’s Governor, Shri Biswabhusan Harichandan, for his dedication to the state’s development.
The event witnessed the presence of Governor of Chhattisgarh, Shri Biswabhusan Harichandan, and Member of Parliament, Shri Mohan Mandavi, among other dignitaries.
Empowering Atmanirbhar Bharat:
The inauguration of NMDC Steel Ltd’s Steel Plant at Nagarnar, a monumental greenfield project surpassing ₹23,800 crores, is poised to propel Bastar onto the global steel map. This initiative will not only provide employment opportunities for thousands but also significantly contribute to the socioeconomic development of the region.
Revamping Railway Infrastructure:
In alignment with Prime Minister Modi’s vision of enhancing railway infrastructure nationwide, the event marked the laying of foundation stones and dedications of several critical rail projects. These include a new rail line between Antagarh & Taroki, a rail line doubling project between Jagdalpur and Dantewada, the Boridand – Surajpur rail line doubling project, and the redevelopment of Jagdalpur Station under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme. The Taroki – Raipur DEMU Train Service inauguration promises to bolster connectivity, particularly in tribal regions, fostering economic growth and accessibility for local residents.
Enhancing Road Connectivity:
In addition to rail projects, the Prime Minister dedicated a road upgrading project from ‘Kunkuri to Chhattisgarh – Jharkhand Border section’ of National Highway – 43. This new road infrastructure is set to improve road connectivity, ultimately benefiting the region’s populace.
