On the second day of his two-day visit to West Bengal, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid foundation stones for Central government projects valued at over ₹830 crore from Singur. He also launched three Amrit Bharat trains connecting Kolkata with New Delhi, Varanasi, and Chennai. Additionally, Modi inaugurated the Jayrambati-Barogopinathpur-Maynapur rail line and flagged off a train between Maynapur and Jayrambati.
On the previous day, Modi had launched projects worth ₹3,250 crore in Malda, which included the inauguration of the country’s first Vande Bharat sleeper train, aimed at connecting Kolkata with Guwahati. Speaking during the visit, Modi remarked, “During my time here, I have had the opportunity to lay foundation stones and dedicate development projects related to West Bengal worth hundreds of crores… Perhaps in the last 100 years, so much work has not happened in just 24 hours.”
The Prime Minister also emphasized the importance of improved connectivity for his parliamentary constituency, Kashi Banaras (Varanasi), with Bengal. He laid the foundation for the Extended Port Gate System, comprising an Inland Water Transport terminal and a road over bridge at Balagarh in Hooghly district. Key figures at the event included West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose and several Union Ministers.
Highlighting West Bengal’s potential for waterways, Modi stated that the Union Government is committed to developing infrastructure for port-led growth. He said, “West Bengal can become a significant hub for manufacturing, trade, and logistics. The emphasis on port and its ecosystem will create employment opportunities.”
The construction of the Extended Port Gate System aims to alleviate traffic congestion in Kolkata and transform Hooghly into a warehousing and trading hub, promising new investments and job creation. Moreover, Modi unveiled a state-of-the-art electric catamaran in Kolkata, showcasing the government’s focus on multi-modal connectivity and green mobility.
He explained the interconnectedness of ports, waterways, highways, and airports to facilitate seamless travel and reduce costs. The PM noted that hybrid electric boats will enhance both river transport and green mobility along the Hooghly river, while also promoting river-based tourism.
Expressing aspirations for West Bengal to lead in fisheries and seafood production, Modi affirmed the central government’s support for developing inland waterways in the state, benefiting both fishermen and farmers. He concluded by affirming that these initiatives would significantly boost West Bengal’s development.
Original Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/kolkata/pm-bengal-100-years-so-much-work-24-hours-10481805/
Category: Cities,Kolkata
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Publish Date: 2026-01-19 05:14:00
