Chennai ( Tamil Nadu [India], April 6 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and initiated several railway and highway projects valued at more than Rs 8,300 crores. Rameswaram , Tamil Nadu , on Sunday.
He initiated the new Pamban Rail Bridge – India’s premier vertical lifting sea bridge – and launched both a train and a vessel from the adjacent road bridge, observing the functioning of the structure. Additionally, he conducted a visit and prayer at the Ramanathaswamy Temple. Rameswaram .
Speaking at the assembly on this event, PM Modi mentioned that today celebrates the significant event of Shri Ram Navami He mentioned that early on Sunday, the radiant sunlight bestowed an elaborate tilak upon Ram Lalla within the majestic Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. "The essence of Lord Shri Ram’s life and the exemplary leadership during his rule provide crucial foundations for building our nation," he stated, further noting that Tamil Nadu 'Sangam-period literature also references Lord Shri Ram,' he conveyed warm wishes to all citizens during the celebration of Shri. Ram Navami from the holy ground of Rameshwaram.
"I am grateful for having prayed at the Ramanathaswamy temple today," stated he/she. PM Modi He mentioned that during this special occasion, he was able to present development projects valued at Rs 8,300 crore. He emphasized that these railway and roadway initiatives will greatly enhance connectivity. Tamil Nadu He offered his congratulations to the people. Tamil Nadu for these transformative initiatives.
Noting that Rameswaram is the land of Bharat Ratna Dr. Kalam, where science and spirituality were shown to complement one another, the Prime Minister stated, "this new Pamban bridge to Rameswaram symbolises the union of technology and tradition."
He highlighted that an ancient town, dating back millennia, is now linked by a remarkable feat of 21st-century engineering. He conveyed his appreciation to the engineers and laborers for their commitment and tireless efforts.
PM Modi emphasized that this bridge marks India's first vertical lift rail-sea hybrid structure, facilitating the passage of large vessels beneath it while also speeding up train journeys. He noted inaugurating a fresh train service along with a vessel earlier today and extended his congratulations to the local populace. Tamil Nadu for this remarkable project.
Stressing that the need for this bridge had been ongoing for numerous decades, PM Modi he stated that, under the blessing of the people, he had been granted the privilege of accomplishing this task. He highlighted that the Pamban bridge supports both Ease of Doing Business andEase of Travel, which has a positive effect on the lives of hundreds of thousands of individuals.
The Prime Minister emphasized that the new railway service will improve connections. Rameswaram to Chennai and other regions of the nation. He further stated that this progress will enhance commerce and tourism. Tamil Nadu , all while generating fresh employment and entrepreneurial prospects for young people.
"Over the last decade, India has increased its economic size twofold," as was noted. PM Modi He pointed out that one of the primary factors behind this swift expansion is the nation's exceptional contemporary infrastructure. He emphasized that over the past ten years, the expenditure on infrastructure like railways, highways, airports, seaports, power facilities, water systems, and natural gas networks has surged almost six times.
He declared that today, large-scale infrastructure projects are advancing swiftly nationwide, highlighting that in the north, the Chenab Bridge in Jammu and Kashmir, which ranks among the tallest railway bridges globally, has been completed. Additionally, he mentioned that in the west, Mumbai boasts the nation’s longest sea bridge, known as the Atal Setu.
He went on to say that in the East, the Bogibeel Bridge in Assam serves as a symbol of advancement, whereas in the South, the Pamban Bridge—one of only a handful of vertical-lift bridges globally—has also been finished. The Prime Minister additionally noted that both the Eastern and Western Dedicated Freight Corridors are approaching their conclusion. He stressed that significant strides have been made with regard to India’s inaugural high-speed train project, even as contemporary services such as Vande Bharat, Amrit Bharat, and Namo Bharat continue to enhance the railway infrastructure across the nation.
Emphasizing that when all regions of India are interconnected, the journey toward becoming a developed nation becomes more robust. PM Modi indicated that this situation has persisted in all developed countries and areas globally.
He stressed that as each part of India becomes interconnected, the entire nation’s full potential is being unlocked. He pointed out that this connectivity is advantageous for all regions across the country, including Tamil Nadu .
" Tamil Nadu "significantly contributes to India's progression towards becoming a developed country," asserted the Prime Minister, emphasizing that Tamil Nadu 's potential grows, India's growth will accelerate further. He emphasised that over the past decade, the central government has allocated three times more funds for Tamil Nadu His observation highlighted how his development since 2014 has significantly improved compared to earlier periods due to the heightened financial support he received. This additional funding played a crucial role in enhancing advancements. Tamil Nadu Economic and industrial development.
Emphasizing that infrastructure development in Tamil Nadu takes precedence for the Indian government, PM Modi emphasized that throughout the last ten years, Tamil Nadu 'S railway budget has expanded over seven times. He also mentioned that prior to 2014, investments in rail projects were much lower. Tamil Nadu received just ₹900 crores annually, whereas this year, the railway budget was Tamil Nadu exceeds Rs 6,000 crore.
He also emphasized that the Indian government is updating 77 railway stations across the state, including the Rameswaram station.
Highlighting the substantial advancements in the construction of rural roads and highways over the past decade, the Prime Minister noted that since 2014, with backing from the central government, approximately 4,000 kilometers of new roadways have been built. Tamil Nadu Additionally, the raised walkway linking Chennai Port will serve as another prime instance of impressive infrastructure.
He added that today, foundation stones were laid and inauguration ceremonies took place for road projects totaling around Rs 8,000 crores. These initiatives, he stated, will improve connectivity throughout multiple districts. Tamil Nadu and enhance connections with Andhra Pradesh.
The Prime Minister observed that contemporary public transportation systems such as the Chennai Metro are improving travel convenience in Tamil Nadu , highlighting that significant infrastructural advancements result in the generation of new employment opportunities across multiple industries.
Highlighting the substantial funds allocated to social infrastructure in India over the past ten years, PM Modi showed joy that millions of families in Tamil Nadu He emphasized that these programs have proved beneficial, noting that in the past decade, more than 4 crores of permanent homes have been supplied to underprivileged households nationwide, with over 12 lakhs being constructed just within this timeframe. Tamil Nadu Under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana.
He additionally stressed that over the last ten years, approximately 12 crores of rural households have gotten access to piped water for the very first time. He mentioned that this encompasses 1 crore 11 lakh families in total. Tamil Nadu , who now have access to piped water in their residences for the first time.
"The delivery of high-quality and cost-effective medical care to our citizens is a pledge we uphold," stated the Prime Minister, emphasizing that through the Ayushman Bharat program, more than 1 crore treatments have been carried out. Tamil Nadu , resulting in savings of Rs 8,000 crore for households within the state. He went on to emphasize that Tamil Nadu boasts more than 1,400 Jan Aushadhi stores, offering medications with discounts as high as 80 percent. He pointed out that these cost-effective drugs have helped citizens save approximately Rs 700 crore.
PM Modi confirmed that the government remains dedicated to making sure young Indians no longer feel pressured to leave the country for medical education, emphasizing that Tamil Nadu has welcomed 11 new medical colleges recently. He encouraged the Government of Tamil Nadu To initiate courses in medical education in the Tamil language, which would assist numerous children from underprivileged backgrounds.
“Effective governance guarantees that each rupee provided by taxpayers improves the lives of even the most impoverished citizens,” stated the Prime Minister, emphasizing that through the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi program, small-scale farmers benefit significantly. Tamil Nadu has received approximately ₹12,000 crores. He further stated that Tamil Nadu 'farmers have similarly gained from the PM Fasal Bima Yojana, with claim amounts reaching Rs 14,800 crore. '
India's maritime economy will significantly contribute to the nation's development, Tamil Nadu "their prowess in this sector will be acknowledged worldwide," exclaimed PM Modi .
He emphasized the diligent effort put in. Tamil Nadu The leader highlighted the importance of the fishing community and stressed that the federal government is offering comprehensive assistance to bolster the state’s fisheries infrastructure. He mentioned that in the last half-decade, Tamil Nadu has secured significant financial support through the PM Matsya Sampada Yojana, highlighting the administration's commitment to offering advanced resources for fisherfolk. This includes considerable investments amounting to several hundred crore rupees in seaweed cultivation zones, fishing ports, and docking stations.
PM Modi Further underscored the administration's dedication to ensuring the well-being and protection of fishermen, noting that over the last ten years, upwards of 3,700 fishers have been repatriated from Sri Lanka, with more than 600 being returned just within the previous year.
Highlighting the increasing worldwide fascination with India, where many individuals seek knowledge and insight into the nation, Prime Minister Modi emphasized the crucial part played by Indian culture and its soft power in driving this enthusiasm. “We are consistently striving to make sure that the Tamil language and legacy extend across the globe,” he stated, underscoring his conviction that during the twenty-first century, such an illustrious tradition should continue to flourish. He conveyed his assurance that the holy land of Rameswaram and Tamil Nadu Will keep inspiring and invigorating the country.
As we mark the founding day of the Bharatiya Janata Party today, PM Modi Highlighted was the aim of constructing a robust, thriving, and advanced India, fueled by the unyielding endeavors of each BJP volunteer. He stressed that citizens are observing effective governance under BJP-led administrations and choices made for the nation’s benefit. Expressing immense satisfaction, he noted how BJP volunteers throughout all regions and sectors of the country are diligently engaging with local communities and aiding those in need. Concluding his remarks, he conveyed profound appreciation to the countless BJP workers and wished them well.
The Governor of Tamil Nadu R.N. Ravi, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, and Union Minister of State Dr. L. Murugan attended the event along with others.
The Prime Minister officially opened the new Pamban Railway Bridge and raised the flag. Rameswaram - Tambaram (Chennai) introduces a new train service. The bridge holds significant cultural importance. As per the Ramayana, the construction of Ram Setu began from Dhanushkoti nearby. Rameswaram .
The Bridge, linking Rameswaram On the mainland, this impressive structure showcases India’s engineering prowess on an international level. Constructed with a budget exceeding Rs 700 crore, it stretches for 2.08 kilometers and includes 99 spans along with a 72.5-meter-high vertical lifting section that ascends to a height of 17 meters. This design allows for easy passage of vessels while maintaining uninterrupted railway traffic.
Built using reinforced stainless steel, top-quality protective paint, and solidly welded connections, this bridge offers enhanced resilience and decreased maintenance requirements. Designed for double railway lines, it is prepared to meet potential future needs. Additionally, a specialized polysiloxane covering shields it against rusting, guaranteeing long-lasting performance in the challenging coastal conditions.
The Prime Minister not only laid the foundation stones but also inaugurated several rail and road initiatives valued at more than Rs 8,300 crore for the nation. Tamil Nadu .
The initiatives encompass laying the cornerstone for the expansion to four lanes of the 28 km stretch from Walajapet to Ranipet along National Highway 40, as well as inaugurating the newly developed four-lane route covering 29 km between Viluppuram and Puducherry on National Highway 332. Additionally, they involve completing the development of a five-segment highway totaling 57 km linking Poondiyankuppam with Sattanathapuram via National Highway 32, alongside finishing another project extending over 48 km connecting Cholapuram to Thanjavur through National Highway 36. These thoroughfares will facilitate connections to numerous religious sites and vacation spots, cut down travel distances among urban areas, expedite reachability to medical facilities like hospitals and ports, and enhance opportunities for transporting farm goods from local producers to adjacent marketplaces. Furthermore, these infrastructure developments aim at stimulating economic growth within regional sectors such as leatherwork and smaller industrial units. (ANI)
