Jalandhar, July 17: Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched multiple infrastructure initiatives valued at Rs 5,470 crore from Jalandhar on Friday, focusing heavily on expanding regional road and rail networks. The newly introduced development portfolio includes the launch of 75 redeveloped railway stations under ongoing central modernization welfare programs. The Prime Minister arrived in Punjab after completing similar high-profile development stops in Chandigarh and Haryana’s Jind earlier in the day.
While addressing a large public gathering, the Prime Minister indicated that political differences do not impact the central government’s dedication to regional welfare.
“Though BJP is not in power in Punjab, the Union Government is ensuring the state’s comprehensive development. My emotional bond with this land goes beyond political equations, and every decision we make is aimed at uplifting the people here,” Modi asserted.
The high-profile visit marks the Prime Minister’s second journey to Jalandhar this year, following his visit to the Dera Sachkhand Ballan in February. The extensive public outreach is being viewed by political analysts as a vital groundwork initiative ahead of the 2027 Punjab Assembly elections.
“Modi har dum har pal Punjab ke logon ke saath hai,” the Prime Minister affirmed amid applause, concluding his address with patriotic slogans.
The infrastructure push brought major updates to cultural and religious transit links across the state. The Prime Minister flagged off the Amritsar (Chheharta)-Varanasi Sant Ravidas Express, creating an immediate, direct rail route between two prominent spiritual centers. Officials stated that the combined initiatives are carefully structured to strengthen connectivity, maximize consumer comfort, and spark long-term economic growth.
Turning his focus toward regional political rivals, the Prime Minister criticized the opposition parties for what he described as a fixation on internal power struggles. He maintained that the traditional political factions in the state have consistently prioritized leadership squabbles over public welfare.
“The Congress’ ‘kursi-kissa’ is not coming to an end, and the Shiromani Akali Dal remains stuck in the exact same position. While they fight over chairs, our focus stays fixed entirely on serving the public and building durable infrastructure for the next generation,” Modi declared.
