Delhi, 30 May (H.S.): Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone, inaugurated various projects worth around Rs 47,600 crore at Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh today.He expressed condolences for the loss of Kanpur native Shubham Dwivedi due to the Pahalgam terrorist attacks, emphasizing a national sentiment of shared grief. Modi highlighted the global cooperation seen during Operation Sindoor, which targeted terrorist hideouts in Pakistan, underscoring the bravery of Indian armed forces and a continued commitment to combat terrorism firmly grounded in three principles: a resolute response, defiance against nuclear threats, and equitable treatment of actions supporting terrorism.
During his address, he illustrated India's growing defense capabilities, promoting the Make in India initiative while emphasizing self-reliance in defense production. Modi spoke of the transformation of Kanpur’s ordnance factory and the establishment of a Defense Corridor in Uttar Pradesh, positioning it as a strategic hub for fostering Atmanirbhar Bharat. He stressed that India aims to reduce dependability on foreign defense imports.
In discussions about national security, the Prime Minister reaffirmed the government's resolve to tackle terrorism and protect the nation. He linked the inaugurated projects in Kanpur to strengthening India's sovereignty and enhancing its global standing. The potential growth in the defense sector was highlighted, with significant investments from major companies, including the commencement of AK-203 rifle production in Amethi and a new site for BrahMos missile manufacturing, suggesting a rise in Uttar Pradesh's industrial activity.
PM Modi criticized past administrations for neglecting the region's industrial growth and underscored the importance of modern infrastructure and energy independence. He announced the launch of power projects adding 660 MW and 1320 MW capacity to address the state’s energy needs, thereby promoting reliability for industrial operations. Overall, with developmental projects exceeding ₹47,000 crore initiated in Kanpur, there’s a clear commitment to rejuvenate the local economy and provide job opportunities for the youth, demonstrating a vision for a robust industrial future in Uttar Pradesh.
Social welfare initiatives in Kanpur include the distribution of Ayushman Vay Vandana Cards, providing free medical treatment for senior citizens, showcasing a comprehensive approach to social welfare. A major modernization project is the establishment of metro services, particularly the expanded Orange Line, which significantly enhances urban infrastructure and mobility. This metro initiative addresses prior infrastructural challenges and promotes city growth.
The Prime Minister responded to skepticism regarding metro services amid urban congestion, emphasizing the transformative developments in Kanpur and Uttar Pradesh. The advantages of the metro system encompass improved transportation, facilitating trade in dense areas like Naveen Market and Bada Chauraha, while assisting students commuting from IIT Kanpur, highlighting the positive impact of enhanced transport on daily activities.
In his conclusion, he stressed that a city's development is contingent upon connectivity and transport efficiency, with ongoing improvements across Uttar Pradesh poised to create a modern economic environment that enriches quality of life and economic prospects for residents.
Uttar Pradesh has advanced its infrastructure and connectivity, moving beyond its previously inadequate road conditions. The Prime Minister underscored the state's transformation, particularly its vast network of expressways. Nighttime travel, previously regarded with caution, is now standard due to the efficient highway system. Kanpur residents look forward to the Kanpur-Lucknow Expressway, expected to reduce travel time to Lucknow to 40–45 minutes, establishing direct links between Lucknow and the Purvanchal Expressway, as well as the Ganga Expressway to further decrease travel distances and durations.
Addressing historical challenges for Kanpur commuters, particularly issues related to the single-line railway track in the Farrukhabad-Anwarganj section that caused disruptions and closures at railway crossings, the Prime Minister announced a ₹1,000 crore investment for an elevated rail corridor. This investment aims to improve traffic flow, increase train speeds, and lower pollution levels, aiming to streamline travel and save time for the citizens of Kanpur.
Additional modernization efforts for Kanpur Central Railway Station are also in progress, demonstrating the commitment to enhancing connectivity and infrastructure in the region.
---------------
Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
