Bengal Must Not Be Left Behind in Railway Modernisation: PM Modi

• PM Modi inaugurates and lays foundation stones for projects worth ₹18,700 crore in Kolkata
• Major projects in roads, railways and ports aimed at boosting Eastern India’s growth
• Six railway stations redeveloped under Amrit Bharat Station Scheme
• Mechanisation of Haldia Dock Complex to enhance cargo capacity and trade

GG News Bureau
Kolkata, 14th March: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for multiple development projects worth ₹18,700 crore in Kolkata, West Bengal, aimed at strengthening infrastructure, improving connectivity and boosting economic growth across Eastern India.

Addressing a large gathering in Kolkata, the Prime Minister said the projects spanning roads, railways and port infrastructure will create new opportunities for trade, industry and employment while improving the quality of life for people in the region.

“Today, from the land of Kolkata, a new chapter of development is being written for West Bengal and Eastern India,” the Prime Minister said.

Among the key infrastructure projects announced was the Kharagpur–Moregram Expressway, which is expected to accelerate economic activities across several districts in the state. The Prime Minister also highlighted the Dubrajpur Bypass and new bridges over the Kangsabati and Shilabati rivers, which will further strengthen connectivity and reduce travel time.

Highlighting railway development, PM Modi said the government is running a nationwide campaign to modernise the Indian Railways, ensuring that West Bengal remains an important part of this transformation.

“It is our resolve that West Bengal should not be left behind in this campaign,” the Prime Minister said.

As part of the railway initiatives, the Automatic Block Signalling System on the Kalaikunda–Kanimahuli section was dedicated to the nation, which will improve capacity on busy routes and enhance passenger safety and travel efficiency.

The Prime Minister also inaugurated six redeveloped railway stations under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme—Kamakhyaguri, Anara, Tamluk, Haldia, Barabhum and Siuri—equipped with improved passenger facilities and modern infrastructure.

Additionally, a new Purulia–Anand Vihar Terminal Express was flagged off, which will strengthen connectivity between West Bengal and states such as Jharkhand, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Delhi.

Emphasizing the importance of maritime infrastructure, PM Modi highlighted the strategic role of Kolkata and Haldia ports, which have historically been major trade centres in Eastern India.

He noted that the mechanisation of the Haldia Dock Complex will speed up cargo handling, increase operational capacity and provide improved facilities for trade and logistics.

Other port infrastructure projects include the renovation of the Bascule Bridge in the Kolkata Dock System and expansion of cargo handling capacity at Kidderpore Dock, which will further strengthen the logistics network in the region.

The Prime Minister said the projects will benefit multiple sectors, including agriculture, industry, tourism and local businesses, while opening new employment opportunities for youth.

Concluding his address, PM Modi expressed confidence that modern infrastructure and stronger connectivity will help West Bengal reclaim its historic leadership in economic and cultural development.

“It is our resolve that Bengal, which has always shown the way to India, once again moves ahead on the path of a ‘Viksit Bengal’,” the Prime Minister said.