PM Modi inaugurates, lays foundation for ₹18,700 crore road, rail and port projects in Kolkata
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday laid the foundation stone and inaugurated multiple development projects worth around ₹18,700 crore in Kolkata, West Bengal, aimed at strengthening connectivity and accelerating economic growth across eastern India.
Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister said the projects related to roads, railways and port infrastructure would give fresh momentum to trade and industry while improving the quality of life for lakhs of people. He noted that projects such as the Kharagpur–Moregram Expressway, the Dubrajpur Bypass and new bridges over the Kangsabati and Shilabati rivers would significantly enhance connectivity across the state.
Highlighting railway development, PM Modi said a nationwide campaign is underway to modernise Indian Railways and stressed that West Bengal should not be left behind in the process. He dedicated the Automatic Block Signalling System on the Kalaikunda–Kanimahuli section and inaugurated six redeveloped stations—Kamakhyaguri, Anara, Tamluk, Haldia, Barabhum and Siuri—under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme.
The Prime Minister also flagged off a new express train between Purulia and Anand Vihar Terminal, which will benefit passengers travelling between West Bengal, Jharkhand, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Delhi.
Emphasising the importance of port-led development, Prime Minister Modi said ports such as Kolkata Port and Haldia Dock Complex have long been major trade hubs in eastern India. He noted that mechanisation at Haldia Dock Complex will speed up cargo handling, increase port capacity and strengthen trade infrastructure.
The projects also include the renovation of the Bascule Bridge in the Kolkata Dock System and augmentation of cargo handling capacity at Kidderpore Dock.
Further, the Prime Minister said the new road, rail and port projects would open fresh opportunities for farmers, traders, entrepreneurs and students while boosting tourism and local industries. He added that modern infrastructure and stronger connectivity would help realise the vision of a developed Bengal and restore the state’s historic role in leading India’s progress.
