In a momentous event, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi introduces a series of groundbreaking development projects worth over Rs 12,700 crore in Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra. The highlight of the day was the inauguration of the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Sewri-Nhava Sheva Atal Setu, India’s longest sea bridge, constructed at a cost exceeding Rs 17,840 crore.
The Atal Setu, spanning 21.8 km with a 16.5 km sea stretch, connects Sewri in Mumbai to Nhava Sheva, providing faster connectivity to Mumbai and Navi Mumbai airports. The Prime Minister emphasized its symbolic significance, showcasing India’s commitment to growth and development. The project, initiated in 2016, stood as a testament to the government’s resolution and determination to complete large-scale infrastructure projects.
The broader spectrum of projects inaugurated included road and rail connectivity, drinking water initiatives, and gems and jewellery ventures. Prime Minister Modi lauded the efforts of the Maharashtra government in driving these initiatives, especially in areas of women empowerment, where schemes like Mukhyamantri Mahila Sakshmikaran Abhitan, Nari Shaktidoot application, and Lek Ladki Yojana are making a significant impact.
Addressing the importance of women’s empowerment, the Prime Minister highlighted various schemes like Ujjwala, Ayushman Card, Jan Dhan Accounts, maternity leave policies, and Sukanya Samridhi accounts, emphasizing the government’s commitment to prioritizing the well-being of women. He stressed that women’s empowerment is a cornerstone of any double-engine government in any state.
The Prime Minister linked the inauguration of Atal Setu with the nation’s aspirations in 2014, showcasing a transformed India. He highlighted achievements such as Bhupen Hazarika Setu, Bogibeel Bridge, Atal Tunnel, Chenab Bridge, expressways, modern railway stations, and new airports. The transformative projects in Maharashtra, including the Bala Saheb Thackrey Samruddhi Mahamarg, Navi Mumbai Airport, and Coastal Road Project, were cited as examples of a changing landscape.
Drawing attention to the efficient use of taxpayers’ money, Prime Minister Modi contrasted current accomplishments with past practices. He cited examples like the Nilwande Dam project, the Uran-Kharkopar railway line, and the Navi Mumbai Metro Project, emphasizing the government’s commitment to timely completion and efficient utilization of resources.
The Prime Minister highlighted the significant increase in the infrastructure budget, reaching Rs 44 lakh crore in the past 10 years, compared to Rs 12 lakh crore in the decade before 2014. He credited the double-engine government model for the acceleration of development projects in Maharashtra, generating new employment opportunities across sectors.
Prime Minister Modi concluded by expressing his commitment to the development of Maharashtra and ensuring it becomes a strong pillar of a developed India. The multi-billion-rupee projects inaugurated in Navi Mumbai represent a paradigm shift in India’s infrastructure landscape, underscoring the government’s commitment to a prosperous and developed India. As Maharashtra takes centre stage in this transformative journey, the nation witnesses the realization of aspirations and the promise of a Viksit Bharat.
