PM Modi Launches Major Infrastructure Push in West Bengal
Prime Minister Narendra Modi gifted a series of significant rail and road projects to West Bengal on Saturday. The total value of these initiatives exceeds three thousand two hundred fifty crore rupees. This development occurred during his two-day visit to the state, which is preparing for upcoming elections.
Historic Launch of Vande Bharat Sleeper Train
From Malda Town railway station, PM Modi officially flagged off India's inaugural Vande Bharat Sleeper train. This new service connects Howrah with Guwahati, specifically Kamakhya. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and West Bengal Governor C V Ananda Bose joined the Prime Minister for this ceremony.
"Today, we have begun the fast progress of Bengal from Malda," PM Modi stated. He emphasized that these railway projects will greatly benefit the people of Bengal, particularly the youth, and stimulate business growth in the region. The Prime Minister described the Vande Bharat train as a symbol of how trains should operate in a developed India.
He later engaged with school students aboard the train and accepted drawings from them at the station, which was specially decorated for the event.
Features of the New Sleeper Train
The first Vande Bharat Sleeper train offers a fully air-conditioned environment. It is designed to provide passengers with an experience similar to airline travel, but at economical fares. This train will make long-distance journeys faster, safer, and more convenient. Travel time on the Howrah-Guwahati route is expected to reduce by approximately two and a half hours.
The train boasts several modern amenities. These include ergonomically designed berths, ample luggage storage space, modern toilets, and facilities friendly to divyangjan. It also features modular pantries and advanced disinfectant technology to ensure a comfortable overnight journey.
Safety is a key focus. The train is equipped with the indigenous Kavach system, advanced fire safety measures, and CCTV surveillance. This sets new standards for safe, efficient, and world-class rail travel in India.
Four Major Railway Projects Initiated
PM Modi laid the foundation stone for four significant railway projects in West Bengal. These projects are:
- A new rail line between Balurghat and Hili.
- Next-generation freight maintenance facilities at New Jalpaiguri.
- Upgradation of the Siliguri Loco Shed.
- Modernisation of Vande Bharat train maintenance facilities in Jalpaiguri district.
These initiatives will assist in both passenger and freight operations. They aim to improve logistics efficiency in North Bengal and create new employment opportunities across the region.
The Prime Minister also inaugurated the electrification of rail lines between New Coochbehar–Bamanhat and New Coochbehar–Boxirhat. This move will enable faster, cleaner, and more energy-efficient train operations.
Introduction of New Amrit Bharat Express Trains
PM Modi virtually flagged off four new Amrit Bharat Express trains. These services are:
- New Jalpaiguri-Nagercoil Amrit Bharat Express.
- New Jalpaiguri-Tiruchirappalli Amrit Bharat Express.
- Alipurduar–SMVT Bengaluru Amrit Bharat Express.
- Alipurduar–Mumbai (Panvel) Amrit Bharat Express.
These trains will provide affordable and reliable long-distance rail connectivity. They will serve students, migrant workers, traders, and others. Additionally, they will strengthen inter-state economic and social linkages.
"Today, Bengal received four new Amrit Bharat Express trains," PM Modi said. He noted that these trains will help connect north Bengal with western and southern India. They will also benefit tourists visiting sites like Ganganagar, Dakshineswar, and Kalighat, as well as those traveling to Maharashtra and southern states.
The Prime Minister also flagged off two new train services equipped with LHB coaches: the Radhikapur–SMVT Bengaluru Express and the Balurghat–SMVT Bengaluru Express. These services offer safe and comfortable travel to major IT and employment hubs such as Bengaluru.
Road Connectivity Enhancement
PM Modi laid the foundation stone for the rehabilitation and four-laning of the Dhupguri–Falakata section of National Highway-31D. This key road project will improve regional road connectivity significantly. It will facilitate smoother movement of both passengers and goods in North Bengal.
All these projects are expected to play a vital role in building modern infrastructure. They aim to improve connectivity, thereby strengthening the eastern and north-eastern regions as key growth engines for the nation.
During his address, PM Modi reflected on the transformation of Indian Railways. "There was a time when we looked at trains abroad and wished for similar ones in India. Today, those dreams are coming true," he remarked. He observed that foreign tourists now take pictures of Indian trains and metros, posting about the development and transformation of our railways.
"The Vande Bharat train is made in India, built with our sweat," the Prime Minister stated proudly. He highlighted that this is the first sleeper train connecting the land of Ma Kali with the land of Ma Kamakhya, emphasizing its cultural and religious significance.
PM Modi also pointed out broader achievements. "Indian Railways is becoming independent and upgraded. We are producing more locomotives than America and Europe, and exporting coaches that strengthen our economy and create employment," he said. He reiterated the mission to reduce distances and enhance connectivity across the country.
