New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for a series of transformative railway projects today via video conferencing, marking a major leap in India’s rail infrastructure. Among the key initiatives, the Prime Minister inaugurated the new Jammu Railway Division, laid the foundation stone for the Rayagada Railway Division Building in Odisha, and unveiled the Charlapalli New Terminal Station in Telangana.
The event coincided with the auspicious occasion of Guru Gobind Singh Ji Jayanti, and the Prime Minister extended his greetings, emphasizing how the Guru’s teachings inspire India’s vision for a strong and prosperous nation.
Highlighting Bharat’s rapid progress, the Prime Minister stated that 2025 has witnessed the expansion of the metro rail network to over 1,000 kilometers. He referred to the recent inauguration of the Namo Bharat train in Delhi-NCR and ongoing metro projects as evidence of the nation’s commitment to modern connectivity.
“Today’s projects in Jammu and Kashmir, Odisha, and Telangana reflect the mantra of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas,’ moving us closer to the vision of a developed India,” said Modi.
The Prime Minister noted that the Indian Railways is undergoing a transformation, driven by initiatives like the Dedicated Freight Corridor, which will reduce congestion and enable high-speed trains. He also highlighted the development of modern, Made-in-India coaches, station redevelopment projects, solar panel installations, and the “One Station, One Product” initiative, all contributing to job creation and economic growth.
Modi remarked that the establishment of Gati Shakti University is equipping youth with specialized railway skills, aligning with the expansion of new railway divisions and headquarters.
Key Regional Developments
- Jammu and Kashmir:
The Prime Minister lauded the milestones in the region, including the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla rail line and the engineering marvels of the Chenab Bridge and Anji Khad Bridge, which will boost connectivity and economic progress. - Odisha:
Emphasizing the state’s rich natural resources and trade potential, Shri Modi announced railway projects worth over ₹70,000 crore. The foundation stone for the Rayagada Railway Division was laid to enhance infrastructure, tourism, and employment, particularly in South Odisha’s tribal-dominated areas. - Telangana:
The inauguration of the Charlapalli New Terminal Station, equipped with modern amenities and solar-powered operations, was highlighted as a step toward sustainable infrastructure. Connected to the Outer Ring Road, the terminal is expected to ease congestion in Secunderabad and Hyderabad, while accelerating regional development.
The Prime Minister underlined India’s broader infrastructure goals, noting the growth in the number of airports from 74 in 2014 to over 150 today and the metro network’s expansion from 5 to 21 cities. “These projects enhance the ease of living and doing business, aligning with India’s mission of becoming a developed nation,” he added.
The event saw participation from several Union Ministers, Governors, Chief Ministers, and dignitaries, including Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir Manoj Sinha, and Chief Ministers of Odisha, Telangana, and Jammu & Kashmir.
Concluding the event, Prime Minister Modi expressed confidence in Bharat’s growth trajectory, saying, “Together, we will accelerate this growth further.” He congratulated citizens on these milestones and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to nation-building.