Mansa, Gujarat: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Amit Shah, today inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for multiple development projects worth approximately ₹241 crore in Mansa, Gujarat. The event was attended by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and other dignitaries.
In his address, Amit Shah reflected on the transformative measures taken by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his tenure as Gujarat’s Chief Minister to address water scarcity. “Once, groundwater in Gujarat could only be accessed at depths of 1,200 feet. Through Modi’s efforts, the water table has risen, ensuring better water access across the state, including Kutch and Saurashtra,” he said.
Shah credited the successful implementation of the Narmada project to Modi’s determination, which overcame significant challenges. He highlighted how the Narmada river’s waters now reach every household in Gujarat, thanks to initiatives like canal construction from Bharuch to Khavda and the filling of over 9,000 ponds to conserve rainwater.
Shah detailed the benefits of the Sujalam-Sufalam Yojana, launched under Modi’s leadership, which ensured water supply from Kadana to Deesa. “By transferring Narmada river water to nearly 9,000 ponds and constructing 14 dams along the Sabarmati river, Modi transformed the water landscape of Gujarat,” he added. These efforts have improved groundwater levels and provided safe, fluoride-free drinking water to North Gujarat residents.
The Union Home Minister highlighted the cultural and spiritual significance of the 500-year-old Maha Kali Mata temple in Ambod, which has undergone extensive renovations. Shah proposed further developments, including the expansion of a newly constructed barrage to create a year-round water-filled pond, along with facilities for boating and walking. He envisioned the site as a serene spiritual retreat, especially during evening Aarti, making it a significant pilgrimage destination.
Shah announced the inauguration of several projects, including:
- Mansa Circuit House
- Protection wall near Neelkanth Mahadev
- Check dam in Badarpura Village
- Classroom blocks in Charada and Delwada Villages
The foundation stone was also laid for 23 additional projects, such as a barrage on the Sabarmati River in Ambod Village, which is expected to benefit local farmers.
Shah expressed confidence in the Gujarat Government’s ability to transform Ambod’s holy temple into a prominent pilgrimage hub. “The new barrage and check dam will not only support agriculture but also enhance the spiritual and cultural identity of the region,” he said.