New Delhi, Jan 6: On Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a series of railway projects via a virtual event, which included the inauguration of the Jammu railway division, the Charlapalli terminal station in Telangana, and the foundation-laying for the Rayagada railway division building in Odisha, part of the East Coast Railway zone.
The Prime Minister praised the swift advancements in connectivity across the nation, noting that since the start of 2025, India has significantly expanded its metro rail network to over 1,000 kilometres.
He also highlighted the recent opening of the Namo Bharat train in Delhi-NCR, alongside new Delhi Metro projects.
The event served as further evidence of the country’s collective progress, as projects in Jammu and Kashmir, Odisha, and Telangana represent a significant advancement in modern connectivity for the northern, eastern, and southern regions, he remarked.
Modi reiterated that the principle of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’ is key to realizing the vision of a developed India, congratulating the residents of these states and all Indian citizens on these new advancements.
“The Prime Minister pointed out that the development of modern rail networks, such as the dedicated freight corridor, is progressing quickly. These special corridors will alleviate congestion on existing tracks, creating additional high-speed rail opportunities,” stated a press release following the event.
Furthermore, “The Prime Minister emphasized the ongoing transformation of the railways, supported by the ‘Make in India’ initiative. Modern coaches for metros and railways are under development, railway stations are being redeveloped, solar panels are being fitted at stations, and ‘One Station, One Product’ stalls are being established,” it mentioned. According to Modi, these initiatives are creating millions of employment opportunities within the railway sector.
“Over the last ten years, countless young individuals have gained permanent government jobs in the railways. The demand for raw materials in factories that produce new train coaches generates additional job prospects in related sectors,” noted the Prime Minister.
Notably, the nation’s first Gati-Shakti University has been launched to cater to special skills pertaining to railways.
Regarding the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla rail line, he remarked that Jammu and Kashmir is reaching new heights concerning railway infrastructure.
The Prime Minister asserted that the completion of the Chenab bridge—the highest railway arch bridge in the world, located in J-K—will be pivotal in linking the region with the rest of India, enhancing convenience for the people of Leh-Ladakh.
“The Chenab bridge and the Anji Khad bridge are exceptional examples of engineering that foster economic growth and prosperity in the region,” he declared.
In his address laying the foundation for the divisional railway manager (DRM) building in the Rayagada division of Odisha, Modi pointed out the state’s wealth of natural resources and extensive coastline, which he believes have immense potential for international trade.
Ongoing railway projects in the state amount to over Rs 70,000 crore, along with the establishment of seven Gati Shakti cargo terminals—factors expected to enhance trade and industry, according to him.
During the inauguration of the Charlapalli terminal station in Telangana, the Prime Minister stated, “This station, linked to the Outer Ring Road, is set to significantly stimulate development in the area.” He emphasized the station’s modern features, such as platforms, lifts, escalators, and solar-powered functions, saying, “This marks a step forward in creating sustainable infrastructure.” The new terminal is also intended to alleviate congestion at existing stations in Secunderabad, Hyderabad, and Kachiguda, making travel more convenient for citizens.
“The Prime Minister emphasized that these projects improve living standards and also enhance the ease of conducting business, aligning with India’s wider infrastructure ambitions,” the press release concluded.
“Prime Minister Modi observed that the nation is currently in the midst of extensive infrastructure expansion, including expressways, waterways, and metro networks. He noted that the number of airports has increased from 74 in 2014 to over 150 now, while metro services have expanded from five to 21 cities across the country,” it added.
The event, held in a hybrid format, was attended by Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, various governors and chief ministers from the three states, and other distinguished guests. (Agencies)
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