Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said the first bullet train would soon be operational. He also virtually inaugurated several railway projects.
According to an official statement, PM Modi launched the new Jammu Railway Division, Rayagada Railway Division Building of East Coast Railway and the Charlapalli New Terminal Station in Telangana.
“We are taking forward the development of railways in India on four parameters. First- modernization of railway infrastructure, Second- Modern facilities for railway passengers, Third- Railway connectivity in every corner of the country, Fourth- Railways for creating jobs, supporting industries,” PM Modi said in the statement.
PM Modi highlighted the several ongoing rail infrastructure projects and said at the start of 2025, India has been accelerating its initiatives with its metro rail network expanding to over 1000 kilometers.
Railway projects that were highlighted by PM:
- The Dedicated Freight Corridor which will reduce pressure on the regular tracks and will also create more opportunities for high-speed trains
- Modern coaches are being developed for metros and railways
- Redevelopment of the stations
- Solar panels are being installed at stations and ‘One Station, One Product’ stalls are being set up at railway stations
- The country’s first Gati-Shakti University has also been established
- The establishment of new divisions and headquarters as the railway network grows benefits areas like Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, and Leh-Ladakh.
- Upgrading railway infrastructure, with the Udhampur – Srinagar -Baramulla rail line
- The Chenab Bridge, the world’s highest railway arch bridge, will play a key role in connecting the region with the rest of India providing convenience to the people of Leh-Ladakh
- Anji Khad Bridge, the country’s first cable-based railway bridge, is also part of this project