PM Narendra Modi Unveils Rail Projects Worth Rs 6,350 Crores in Raigarh, Chhattisgarh
Lays Foundation for Critical Care Blocks and Distributes Sickle Cell Counseling Cards
Raigarh, Chhattisgarh, September 14, 2023 – Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated a series of significant railway projects valued at approximately Rs 6,350 crores in Raigarh, Chhattisgarh today. In addition to the railway initiatives, he laid the foundation for “critical care blocks” in nine districts of Chhattisgarh and distributed one lakh sickle cell counseling cards as part of a health outreach program.
The railway projects unveiled by the Prime Minister encompass a diverse range of developments, including the Chhattisgarh East Rail Project Phase-I, the construction of a third rail line connecting Champa to Jamga, another third rail line connecting Pendra Road to Anuppur, and the implementation of the Merry-Go-Round (MGR) system connecting Talaipalli Coal Mine to NTPC Lara Super Thermal Power Station (STPS).
Addressing the audience, Prime Minister Modi acknowledged the state’s significant stride towards development, with the introduction of railway projects exceeding Rs 6,400 crores. He emphasized that these projects not only expand energy generation capabilities but also enhance healthcare services within the state. The Prime Minister also highlighted the distribution of Sickle Cell Counseling Cards, a crucial health initiative.
Prime Minister Modi underscored the global recognition of India’s rapid development and its unique model of social welfare. He cited the praise received during the recent G20 Summit in New Delhi, where world leaders commended India’s developmental approach. He attributed this achievement to the government’s unwavering commitment to the equitable development of every state and region.
“Chhattisgarh is a powerhouse of development for the country,” Prime Minister Modi declared, emphasizing that a nation can only progress if its key sectors are functioning at maximum capacity. He credited the Central Government’s vision and policies for Chhattisgarh’s multifaceted development over the past nine years.
The Prime Minister cited several projects, such as the Visakhapatnam to Raipur Economic Corridor and Raipur to Dhanbad Economic Corridor, as well as the development of important national highways in the state. He highlighted that the enhanced rail network would alleviate congestion on the Jharsuguda Bilaspur section of the Bilaspur-Mumbai rail line.
Furthermore, Prime Minister Modi explained that the improved rail infrastructure would reduce coal transportation costs and contribute to maximum electricity generation at lower prices. He also inaugurated the 65-kilometer Merry-Go-Round project, which connects the Talaipalli Mine and is set to benefit states like Chhattisgarh.
Discussing India’s vision for development in the next 25 years, the Prime Minister emphasized the need for all citizens to participate equally. He stressed the importance of meeting energy demands while protecting the environment, citing the transformation of closed coal mines into eco-tourism destinations. He also highlighted the provision of irrigation and drinking water facilities using water released from these mines, benefiting the tribal population.
Prime Minister Modi reiterated the government’s commitment to preserving forests and land while tapping into forest resources to foster prosperity. He mentioned the Vandhan Vikas Yojana and the potential growth of the millets market.
Regarding the distribution of sickle cell counseling cards, the Prime Minister highlighted its significance in controlling sickle cell anemia among tribal populations. He concluded his address by reaffirming the commitment to “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas” and expressed confidence in Chhattisgarh’s journey towards greater development.
The event was attended by Union Minister of State for Tribal Affairs, Renuka Singh Saruta, and Deputy Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh, T S Singhdeo, among other dignitaries.
Background:
The railway projects inaugurated by Prime Minister Modi are part of a broader effort to enhance connectivity and socioeconomic development. The Chhattisgarh East Rail Project Phase-I, a significant component of PM GatiShakti, includes a 124.8-kilometer rail line from Kharsia to Dharamjaygarh, featuring a spur line to Gare-Pelma and three feeder lines connecting Chhal, Baroud, Durgapur, and other coal mines. This electrified broad gauge rail line, constructed at a cost of approximately Rs. 3,055 crore, will facilitate coal transportation from Mand-Raigarh coalfields in Raigarh, Chhattisgarh.
The construction of a third rail line between Pendra Road and Anuppur spans 50 kilometers and costs about Rs 516 crore. Meanwhile, the 98-kilometer third line between Champa and Jamga, with an investment of around Rs. 796 crores, promises to enhance connectivity and boost tourism and employment opportunities in the region.
The electrified MGR (Merry-Go-Round) System, covering a distance of 65 kilometers, will transport coal from NTPC’s Talaipalli coal mine to the 1600 MW NTPC Lara Super Thermal Power Station in Chhattisgarh. This system, built at a cost exceeding Rs 2070 crore, will bolster the production of low-cost and reliable power from NTPC Lara, strengthening the nation’s energy security.
In addition to the railway projects, Prime Minister Modi laid the foundation for 50 bedded ‘critical care blocks’ in nine districts of Chhattisgarh, funded through the Pradhan Mantri – Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM) at an estimated cost of over Rs 210 crores. The distribution of one lakh sickle cell counseling cards is part of the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission (NSAEM), initiated by the Prime Minister in July 2023.
