Varanasi, UP, Dec 18: In a landmark event today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for a series of ambitious development projects totaling over Rs 19,150 crores in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. The projects span crucial sectors, including transportation, infrastructure, healthcare, and renewable energy.
PM Modi flagged off the Varanasi-New Delhi Vande Bharat Express, marking a new era in rail connectivity. The event also witnessed the inauguration of the New Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Nagar-New Bhaupur Dedicated Freight Corridor Project, a monumental railway initiative costing around Rs 10,900 crore.
The Prime Minister launched the Unified Tourist Pass System under the Smart City Mission, streamlining tourism in Varanasi. Additionally, he inaugurated the green-field Shivpur-Phulwaria-Lahartara road, reinforcing the city's infrastructure with two Railway Over Bridges (ROBs) at a combined cost exceeding Rs 370 crores.
Varanasi witnessed the strengthening and widening of 20 roads, including the Sangam Ghat road in Kaithi village. Residential projects such as the construction of multi-storey buildings in Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Hospital and barracks in Police line and PAC Bhullanpur were also unveiled.
The Prime Minister marked the occasion by inaugurating a 132 KW substation at Alaipur, enhancing electricity infrastructure. The 10,000th locomotive produced by Banaras Locomotive Works was flagged off, symbolizing the region's manufacturing prowess.
Foundation stones were laid for several healthcare and social projects, including an 800 MW solar park in Chitrakoot district, a new petroleum oil terminal at Mirzapur, and 69 rural drinking water schemes under the Jal Jeevan Mission, collectively valued at over Rs 6500 crores.
In his address, Prime Minister Modi expressed immense pride in the Guinness World Record set by Varanasi for lighting the most number of diyas during Dev Deepavali. He acknowledged the citizens' dedication to the service of the land of Lord Mahadev.
PM Modi reiterated his belief that the prosperity of Uttar Pradesh contributes to the nation's progress. He emphasized the government's commitment to the comprehensive development of the region, spanning water supply, healthcare, roads, railways, airports, electricity, solar energy, and the rejuvenation of Ganga Ghats.
As Varanasi takes center stage in India's transformative journey, these initiatives are poised to accelerate economic growth, improve infrastructure, and enhance the overall quality of life for its residents. |
