In a momentous two-day visit to Varanasi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spearheaded the launch of an array of development initiatives, cementing his commitment to the holistic progress of the region. The highlight of the visit was the inauguration of the second edition of the Kashi Tamil Sangamam at Namo Ghat, accompanied by the flagging off of the Kashi Tamil Sangamam Express, bridging Varanasi and Kanyakumari.
Adding to the extensive list of projects, Prime Minister Modi inaugurated the SwarVed Mahamandir in Umaraha, Varanasi, symbolizing a fusion of cultural and spiritual endeavors. Addressing the devotees at Mahamandir, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of such projects in preserving India’s rich heritage.
One of the key milestones of the visit was the launch of several development projects collectively worth Rs 19,150 crore. Among them was the inauguration of the New Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Nagar-New Bhaupur Dedicated Freight Corridor Project, a colossal undertaking costing around Rs. 10,900 crore, aiming to bolster transportation infrastructure and connectivity.
On the rail front, Prime Minister Modi flagged off the Varanasi-New Delhi Vande Bharat Express train, the Dohrighat-Mau MEMU train, and a pair of Long Haul goods trains at the newly inaugurated Dedicated Freight Corridor. The 10,000th locomotive produced by Banaras Locomotive Works was also unveiled during the ceremony.
Underlining the commitment to sustainable energy, Prime Minister Modi laid the foundation stone for an 800 MW solar park in Chitrakoot district, with an estimated cost of Rs. 4000 crore. Additionally, to enhance the petroleum supply chain, a new petroleum oil terminal at Mirzapur, costing over Rs. 1050 crore, was inaugurated.
In a nod to urban development, the Prime Minister launched a website for detailed tourist information and the Unified Tourist Pass System under the Smart City Mission. This integrated pass will facilitate single-platform ticket booking for Shri Kashi Vishwanath Dham, Ganga Cruise, and Sarnath’s light and sound show, offering visitors a seamless experience through integrated QR code services.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath extended a warm welcome to Prime Minister Modi, praising him as the “architect of new India.” He highlighted the significance of the ‘Kashi Tamil Sangamam’ in fostering the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat-Shrestha Bharat.’
The multifaceted initiatives launched by Prime Minister Modi underscored the government’s commitment to fostering comprehensive development, spanning cultural, infrastructural, and environmental realms, in the heart of Varanasi.
