Krishnanagar: In a transformative move towards bolstering West Bengal’s economic landscape, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi dedicated a slew of development projects worth Rs 15,000 crore in Krishnanagar, Nadia district, today. These initiatives span critical sectors such as power, rail, and road, marking a significant stride in the state’s march towards progress.
Addressing a jubilant gathering, Prime Minister Modi expressed his commitment to making West Bengal a powerhouse of development. This event follows closely on the heels of yesterday’s inauguration in Arambagh, where projects exceeding Rs 7,000 crores were launched in railway, port, and petroleum sectors.
“I am fortunate as development projects worth more than Rs 15,000 crores are being inaugurated today, encompassing electricity, road, and railway sectors to make the lives of West Bengal’s citizens easier,” said the Prime Minister. He emphasized that these initiatives will not only propel the state’s development but also generate increased employment opportunities, especially for the youth.
Underscoring the pivotal role of electricity in development, Prime Minister Modi highlighted the government’s commitment to making West Bengal self-reliant for its energy needs. The Raghunathpur Thermal Power Station Phase II (2×660 MW) in Purulia district, a coal-based thermal power project, is expected to attract over Rs 11,000 crore in investments, addressing the state’s energy requirements and fostering economic development.
The Prime Minister also applauded India’s commitment to environmental concerns, citing the Flue Gas Desulfurization (FGD) system at Mejia Thermal Power Station, developed at a cost of approximately Rs 650 crore, as an example of the nation’s dedication to tackling pollution.
Turning his attention to connectivity, Prime Minister Modi highlighted West Bengal’s potential as the ‘eastern gate’ of the country. The inauguration of the Farakka-Raiganj Section of NH-12 (100 Km) at a cost of around Rs 2000 crore is expected to reduce travel time, ease traffic congestion, and spur economic activities in the region.
Emphasizing the historical significance of the railway in West Bengal, the Prime Minister regretted that the state’s rich heritage and advantages were not harnessed effectively by previous governments. He detailed the government’s substantial efforts in the last decade to modernize and develop the railway infrastructure, with four projects unveiled today aimed at bridging the developmental gap.
Governor of West Bengal, Dr. C V Ananda Bose, and Union Minister of State for Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Shri Shantanu Thakur, were among the dignitaries present at the ceremony.
- Raghunathpur Thermal Power Station Phase II (2×660 MW): The foundation stone for this coal-based thermal power project in Purulia district was laid, utilizing highly efficient supercritical technology to bolster the nation’s energy security.
- Flue Gas Desulfurization (FGD) System at Mejia Thermal Power Station: Inaugurated at a cost of Rs 650 crore, this system removes sulfur dioxide from flue gases, producing clean flue gas and forming gypsum for use in the cement industry.
- Farakka-Raiganj Section of NH-12 (100 Km): The four-laning road project, developed at a cost of Rs 1986 crore, aims to reduce traffic congestion, enhance connectivity, and contribute to the socio-economic development of North Bengal and the Northeast region.
- Rail Projects: Four railway projects worth over Rs 940 crore were dedicated to the state, including the doubling of Damodar – Mohishila rail line, third line between Rampurhat and Murarai, doubling of Bazarsau – Azimganj rail line, and a new line connecting Azimganj – Murshidabad. These projects aim to improve rail connectivity, facilitate freight movement, and spur economic and industrial growth in the region.