NEW DELHI: Pointing to how aspirational India now wants to accomplish more in less time and people wish to take long-distance journeys swiftly, PM Narendra Modi Monday said this has led to more demand for high-speed trains. He said the day is not far when the first bullet train starts operating in India.
Speaking after virtually laying foundation stone and inaugurating a slew of projects, including the new Jammu division, the PM said govt is taking several steps to improve transport infrastructure, from expressways to fast trains and airports.
Modi described creation of Jammu division, which is railway’s 70th division, as a “monumental step”. This comes ahead of the official inauguration of Katra-Reasi railway section & the launch of Vande Bharat to Srinagar.
On modernisation of railways, the PM said facilities like Vande Bharat trains, Amrit Bharat stations, and Namo Bharat rail have set new benchmarks for railways.
“Just a few days ago, I saw a video showcasing the new sleeper version of Vande Bharat running at 180kpmh during its trial run. Such milestones fill every Indian with pride. These achievements are just the beginning, and it won’t be long before Bharat witnesses operation of its first bullet train,” he said.
He said there is a four-pronged strategy for modernising railways – modernisation of railway infrastructure, modern facilities for passengers, railway connectivity in every corner of the country, and railways for creating jobs and supporting industries. Modi said work on modern rail networks like Dedicated Freight Corridor is progressing rapidly and these special corridors will reduce pressure on regular tracks and will create more opportunities for high-speed trains.
On expansion of railway network in J&K, he said completion of Chenab Bridge will play a key role in connecting the region with the rest of India providing convenience to people of Leh-Ladakh.
Highlighting the expansion of infrastructure including Metro rail services, he said, “These projects are part of a larger roadmap towards a developed India, which is now a mission for every citizen of the country.”
