Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation for development projects exceeding Rs 830 crore in Singur, West Bengal, emphasizing the importance of Eastern India’s development for the nation’s progress. He noted the launch of the first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train and additional Amrit Bharat Express trains, marking a significant enhancement in regional rail connectivity. Modi highlighted the potential of waterways and mentioned new projects for port-led development. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal emphasized the transformation of India’s inland waterways under Modi’s leadership, launching Rs 552 crore in projects aimed at improving multimodal logistics.
Environmentally Sustainable Transport
A notable development was the Extended Port Gate System at Balagarh, designed to ease congestion and enhance cargo movement through inland waterways. Modi also introduced a hybrid electric catamaran, supporting environmentally sustainable transport. Additional railway infrastructure projects worth Rs 280 crore were initiated to enhance regional connectivity. The initiatives reflect the government’s holistic strategy for integrated infrastructure development in West Bengal and Eastern India Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently dedicated and inaugurated significant waterways and railway infrastructure projects worth Rs 830 crore during a public event at.
Singur in the Hooghly district of West Bengal, marking a major milestone in the central government’s push for multimodal connectivity and economic development in eastern India. This investment underscores the emphasis on seamless integration of ports, inland waterways, rail, and road networks to bolster trade, improve logistics efficiency, and spur sustained regional growth At the heart of the announcement was the Extended Port Gate System at Balagarh, which includes a modern Inland Water Transport (IWT) terminal and a road overbridge designed to transform the region’s cargo handling capabilities and support efficient year‑round navigation.
Modern Barge Terminal, Complete
Spanning nearly 900 acres, this facility is projected to handle up to 2.7 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) of freight, significantly easing congestion in existing corridors, especially around Kolkata’s main dock system The addition of this modern barge terminal, complete with dedicated (India) berths for containerised and bulk cargo, will enhance multimodal logistics connectivity by integrating river transport with rail and road networks, cutting transit times, lowering logistics costs, and boosting economic activity across the eastern hinterland. These infrastructure efforts support India’s National Waterways vision and strengthen the long‑term role of river systems as efficient cargo.
Routes, particularly along National Waterway‑1 (Ganga–Bhagirathi–Hooghly) In parallel with the waterway developments, the Prime Minister also inaugurated the Jayrambati‑Barogopinathpur‑Maynapur rail line, expanding connectivity deep into rural and semi‑urban areas. This new railway segment enhances passenger movement and provides a more direct link between interior regions and major transit hubs, facilitating smoother access to employment, education, and services As part of the rail infrastructure push, three Amrit Bharat Express trains were flagged off, improving long‑distance connectivity from Kolkata to major cities such as New Delhi, Varanasi, and Chennai.
Prime Minister Modi Emphasized
This expansion of rail services aims to enhance mobility for millions of commuters, improve regional linkages, and foster tourism and commerce between West Bengal and other key economic centres In his remarks during the event, Prime Minister Modi emphasized that such initiatives will not only advance transport connectivity but also help transform West Bengal into a “trade and logistics hub,” drawing in investment and generating employment opportunities. He reiterated that the development of Eastern India is essential for fulfilling the broader national vision of building a **“Developed India Modern infrastructure like the Balagarh facility and expanded supports.
Sustainable and green mobility. The introduction of technologically advanced systems, including eco‑friendly river vessels, contributes to reducing carbon footprint while promoting efficient transport. These initiatives align with national policies aiming to integrate multimodal transport systems that lower operational costs, shorten delivery times, and encourage private sector participation in logistics and manufacturing These projects represent not just regional upgrades but also nationwide strategic investments. They dovetail with other infrastructure plans like the Sagarmala Programme, which focuses on port‑led development across India to enhance coastal connectivity and maritime logistics.
Rail Corridors, Expansion Of Highway
Such investments open new avenues for trade and make India’s supply chains more globally competitive The launch of these comprehensive infrastructure projects also complements ongoing efforts in national connectivity, such as upgrades to rail corridors, expansion of highway networks, and modernization of logistics parks, each playing a critical role in fostering economic resilience and reducing regional disparities. Through coordinated planning and execution, the government is fostering a more integrated transport ecosystem that benefits businesses, communities, and everyday travelers alike This transformational infrastructure push in West Bengal is expected to.
Reshape the way goods and people move across the region and connect eastern India more efficiently with domestic and international markets. As logistics (Railways) costs decline and transport time improves, industries ranging from agriculture to manufacturing are likely to see enhanced competitiveness, supporting India’s long‑term economic aspirations and marking a new chapter in the country’s infrastructure story.
Q1: What projects did PM Modi dedicate in West Bengal?
A1: Railways, inland waterways, port infrastructure, and eco‑friendly river transport worth Rs 830 crore.
Q2: Where were these projects inaugurated?
A2: Singur, Hooghly district, West Bengal.
Q3: Which new train services were launched?
A3: Three Amrit Bharat Express trains connecting key cities.
Q4: What is the importance of the inland waterway project?
A4: Enhances cargo movement, reduces congestion, and promotes sustainable river transport.
Q5: How do these projects benefit West Bengal?
A5: Improves connectivity, trade, employment opportunities, and regional economic growth.
