West Bengal Unveils National Highway Projects Worth ₹3,200 Crore

On December 20, 2023, West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose launched national highway projects valued at ₹3,200 crore from Netaji Park in the Taherpur area of Nadia district. The initiative aims to enhance economic activities and boost tourism in the state. This development occurred in the absence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was initially scheduled to inaugurate the projects but was unable to do so due to poor visibility caused by dense fog.

The Prime Minister’s helicopter could not land in the area, forcing him to return to Kolkata airport. Modi later addressed attendees virtually, expressing his regret for not being present in person. During this virtual address, he emphasized the importance of these projects in improving connectivity within the state and beyond.

Infrastructure Enhancements and Economic Impact

Governor Bose inaugurated the four-laning of the Barajaguli-Krishnanagar section of NH-34, measuring 66.7 km, while also laying the foundation stone for the four-laning of the Barasat-Barajaguli stretch in the adjacent North 24 Parganas district. Modi noted that these infrastructure enhancements would create a vital link between Kolkata and Siliguri, significantly reducing travel time by approximately two hours.

According to Modi, this improved connectivity will facilitate smoother vehicle movement and strengthen links between West Bengal’s capital and other districts, as well as with neighbouring countries. He stated, “It has remained our constant endeavour to ensure modern connectivity to those far-flung areas of Bengal which have suffered on account of backwardness.”

Furthermore, the Prime Minister highlighted that the projects would stimulate economic growth in the region and act as a catalyst for tourism development. “The projects will also boost the economic growth in the region and will provide impetus to the growth of tourism across the region,” he added.

The announcement of these projects reflects a broader strategy to enhance infrastructure and connectivity in West Bengal, aiming to support sustainable development and improve the quality of life for residents. The commitment to modernising transport links is expected to attract investment and create opportunities, benefiting both local communities and the state’s economy.