PM Modi Inaugurates Namo Bharat Rapid Rail and Meerut Metro Services in Uttar Pradesh
Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially launched the Namo Bharat rapid rail and Meerut Metro services on Sunday, describing the project as a "grand glimpse of connectivity in Viksit Bharat" and reinforcing that development remains the fundamental principle of governance under the BJP regime.
Special Connection with Meerut and Political Critique
Addressing a public gathering in Lucknow, Modi expressed a "special attachment" to Meerut, noting that he had initiated his Lok Sabha election campaigns in 2014, 2019, and 2024 from the city. "Meerut ke logon ne mujhe hamesha bahut aashirwad diya hai," he said, translating to "The people of Meerut have always blessed me greatly."
In a sharp critique of opposition parties, including the Congress, Samajwadi Party, and BSP, the Prime Minister accused them of engaging in "poisonous politics" rather than prioritizing development. He challenged these parties to compete on platforms of growth and public welfare, asserting that they had "failed" to "change their mindset." Modi emphasized that the BJP has consistently placed development at the forefront of its policies, with the Meerut Metro serving as a tangible reflection of this approach.
Metro Expansion and Infrastructure Achievements
Modi highlighted the accelerated pace of metro expansion under his administration, contrasting it with the previous Congress-led government. He stated that before 2014, metro connectivity progressed at a "snail's pace," with only five cities receiving metro services. In contrast, more than 25 cities now have operational metro networks under BJP rule, positioning India as the world's third-largest metro network.
"This is because our government wants to provide facilities to people and reduce pollution and traffic congestion," Modi explained. He attributed past delays in infrastructure projects to scams and corruption during previous administrations and noted India's shift from importing metro technology to achieving self-reliance.
Integrated Transport and Economic Benefits
The Prime Minister underscored the integration of transport systems, with railway stations, bus terminals, and metro networks connected at key locations such as Sarai Kale Khan, Anand Vihar, Ghaziabad, and Meerut. He described it as historic that Namo Bharat rapid rail and metro services would operate together, offering daily commuters between Meerut and Delhi significant time and cost savings while generating employment opportunities.
Modi also outlined broader infrastructure developments in Uttar Pradesh, including:
- Rapid construction of expressways
- Development of dedicated freight corridors
- The upcoming international airport at Jewar in western Uttar Pradesh
He praised Uttar Pradesh as a land of hard work and innovation, where small industrialists, weavers, and craftsmen are advancing the dual principles of heritage and development.
Trade Agreements and Support for Industries
Modi pointed to India's growing global stature, with developed countries seeking trade agreements, a contrast to what he called "hesitation" during previous Congress-led governments due to corruption allegations. Recent trade agreements are expected to benefit various small and cottage industries, including:
- Sports goods manufacturers in Meerut
- The crockery industry in Khurja
- Brass units in Moradabad
- Home furnishing businesses in Baghpat
- Wood carving artisans in Saharanpur
Additionally, the government has allocated Rs 10,000 crore for the MSME sector to improve credit access, supported weavers and textile workers, and disbursed nearly Rs 95,000 crore to farmers under the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme, with Meerut farmers alone receiving around Rs 800 crore.
Commitment to Farmers and Women's Empowerment
Stressing his administration's dedication to agriculture, Modi highlighted the conferral of the Bharat Ratna on former Prime Minister and farmer leader Chaudhary Charan Singh. He affirmed that the "double-engine government" is committed to increasing farmers' incomes in alignment with his vision.
Modi also traveled on the Meerut Metro, interacting with students and citizens. He noted that improved law and order ensures a secure travel environment and emphasized that the Namo Bharat rail symbolizes women's empowerment, with women managing train operations, station control, and other key functions. "Today, every Indian is working hard towards the goal of Viksit Bharat," Modi concluded, reinforcing the project as a symbol of the BJP's work culture in completing initiatives without delays.
