The Aryavarth Express
Agency(New Delhi): The Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, has initiated an extensive rollout of more than 2000 railway infrastructure projects, collectively valued at over Rs. 41,000 crores. This monumental initiative was launched via video conferencing, drawing participation from lakhs of people across 500 railway stations and 1500 other locations.
During the event, titled Viksit Bharat Viksit Railways, the Prime Minister highlighted this initiative as emblematic of India’s newfound ethos of working at an unprecedented pace and magnitude. He drew parallels to recent expansions in the education and health sectors, illustrating the government’s commitment to comprehensive development. The launch included the redevelopment of 553 railway stations in 12 states across 300 districts, including notable projects like the Gomti Nagar station in Uttar Pradesh, and over 1500 road and overbridge ventures.
Shri Modi emphasized the particular importance of these projects for India’s youth, the primary beneficiaries of a developed India (Viksit Bharat). He acknowledged their role in shaping the future and praised their contributions to bringing the railway visions to fruition. The Prime Minister also expressed pride in the impending Amrit Bharat Stations, symbolizing progress (Vikas) and heritage (Virasat), with each station reflecting local cultural and architectural themes.
Reflecting on the past decade, the Prime Minister noted the remarkable transformation of India’s railway system. Modern amenities, previously deemed unattainable, are now accessible, including semi high-speed trains and improved rail electrification. He underscored the shift from unmanned railway gates to overbridges and underbridges, enhancing travel safety and convenience.
Shri Modi highlighted the economic growth of India, moving from the 11th to the 5th largest global economy, with a corresponding increase in the railway budget from Rs. 45 thousand crores to Rs. 2.5 lakh crores. He linked this growth to India’s ambition to become the third-largest economy globally.
The Prime Minister credited this growth to the efficient utilization of resources, free from corruption, and directed towards enhancing infrastructure. He stressed that every rupee spent on infrastructure spurs new income sources and job opportunities, from manual labor to engineering roles. He also mentioned the ‘One Station One Product’ program, promoting local products and craftsmanship at railway stations.
In his concluding remarks, Shri Modi envisioned a future where the modernization of thousands of railway stations would herald a new era of substantial investment and revolution in India’s railway sector.
The launch included the foundation stone for the redevelopment of 553 stations under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, designed to act as ‘City Centres’ with modern amenities, reflecting local culture and heritage. Additionally, the Prime Minister inaugurated the redeveloped Gomti Nagar station and 1500 Road Over Bridges and Underpasses across various states, aimed at improving travel safety and efficiency.
