PM Modi Launches ₹5,400 Cr Projects in West Bengal
Massive boost for gas, power, and rail sectors across the state
Kolkata: In a major development initiative, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday inaugurated projects worth ₹5,400 crore in West Bengal. The projects, spanning energy, transportation, and urban development, are aimed at improving infrastructure and generating employment.
Addressing a public event in the industrial town of Durgapur, PM Modi said that India’s path to becoming a developed nation by 2047 relies on a robust and modern infrastructure framework. The newly launched projects reflect the Centre’s commitment to this goal, especially in Eastern India.
‘One Nation, One Gas Grid’ and Bengal’s Role
Gas connectivity expansion, new pipelines to fuel industries and homes
PM Modi highlighted his government’s vision of ‘One Nation, One Gas Grid’ and said Bengal is a crucial part of this mission. As part of this, he inaugurated the ₹1,950 crore City Gas Distribution project in Bankura and Purulia. The initiative, led by Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL), will bring piped natural gas (PNG) to homes and compressed natural gas (CNG) to retail outlets.
In addition, the Durgapur-Kolkata section of the Durgapur-Haldia Natural Gas Pipeline—built under the Pradhan Mantri Urja Ganga (PMUG)—was dedicated to the nation. This 132 km pipeline, costing ₹1,190 crore, passes through Purba Bardhaman, Hooghly, and Nadia. It is expected to serve 25 to 30 lakh households and improve energy access to industries in Durgapur and Raghunathpur.
Clean Energy and Emission Control
Flue Gas Desulphurisation systems to cut industrial pollution
Focusing on sustainable growth, the Prime Minister also dedicated Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) systems at the Durgapur Steel and Raghunathpur Thermal Power Stations operated by Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC). Built at a cost of ₹1,457 crore, these systems aim to reduce emissions and improve air quality in the region.
“These efforts will not only improve the environment but also enhance the global competitiveness of our industries,” PM Modi said.
Transport and Rail Connectivity Boost
Vande Bharat trains, railway doubling, and airport upgrades
In his speech, PM Modi said Bengal’s rail connectivity has grown significantly. New rail lines, modernized stations, and over-bridges are transforming transportation in the state. He inaugurated the doubling of the 36-km Purulia-Kotshila rail line, a ₹390 crore project that will improve capacity and reduce travel time.
He added that Bengal has one of the highest numbers of Vande Bharat trains, and the Kolkata Metro network is expanding rapidly. Additionally, the Udaan scheme has connected small airports across Bengal, enabling more than five lakh passenger journeys in the past year.
Empowerment Through Development
Job creation, self-reliance, and clean energy at the heart of growth
PM Modi underlined that these initiatives are part of a larger mission to make India a developed nation by 2047. He stated, “Our way forward is empowerment through development, self-reliance through employment, and good governance through compassion.”
He also promised that Bengal will become the engine of India’s growth under this development model. “The youth of Bengal will benefit from these initiatives, which will create new jobs and spur industrial growth,” he added.