Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Namo Bharat Train and Metro Phase-IV projects in Delhi, marking a significant milestone in urban mobility and infrastructure development. With investments exceeding ₹12,200 crore, these projects aim to enhance connectivity, reduce travel time, and support India’s ambition of becoming a global leader in health and wellness.
Key Highlights
1. Namo Bharat Train
The inauguration of the first Namo Bharat Train between Sahibabad and New Ashok Nagar on the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut corridor is a game-changer in urban transit.
- Cost: ₹4,600 crore for the initial 13 km stretch.
- Travel Time: New Ashok Nagar to Meerut South in just 40 minutes.
- Fares: ₹150 for standard coach and ₹225 for premium coach.
- Future Expansion: Sarai Kale Khan and Jangpura stations operational by April-May 2025.
2. Delhi Metro Phase-IV Extension
The 2.8 km Janakpuri to Krishna Park stretch was also inaugurated, connecting key areas in West Delhi.
- Investment: ₹1,200 crore.
- Future Plans: The Rithala-Kundli section, spanning 26.5 km, will link Delhi to Haryana at a cost of ₹6,230 crore.
Focus on Metro Expansion
PM Modi highlighted India’s remarkable progress in Metro connectivity over the past decade:
- Metro Network Growth: From outside the top ten globally in 2014 to now the third-largest at 1,000 km.
- Ambition: To become the world’s second-largest Metro network during the BJP’s current tenure.
Boosting Healthcare with Ayurveda
In addition to transport, the PM laid the foundation stone for the Central Ayurveda Research Institute (CARI) in Rohini, New Delhi:
- Cost: ₹185 crore.
- Facilities: Includes OPD, IPD, treatment, and administrative blocks.
- Vision: Establishing India as the global hub for health and wellness under the “Heal in India” initiative.
- Special Initiatives: Introduction of an AYUSH visa for foreign nationals seeking treatment in India, benefitting hundreds already.
Infrastructure as a Catalyst for Growth
PM Modi emphasized the government’s commitment to infrastructure:
- Budget Increase: From ₹2 lakh crore a decade ago to ₹11 lakh crore now.
- Objective: Providing a dignified and quality life for all citizens, including the middle class and poor.
Conclusion
The newly launched projects underscore the government’s vision to transform urban mobility and healthcare in India. With a focus on connectivity, wellness, and development, these initiatives pave the way for a modern, self-reliant India.
