With an aim of boosting development in his Lok Sabha constituency Varanasi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today launched seven schemes at the total cost of Rs 5000 crore amid his assertion that his government believes in timely completion of projects.
The schemes launched included "Urja Ganga", an ambitious gas pipeline project which will bring piped cooking fuel to residents of this ancient temple town besides catering to millions of consumers in neighbouring states.
Other programmes launched were expansion of Diesel Locomotive Works, dedication of 765/400 KV GIS Varanasi Power Sub-station and inauguration of Varanasi Postal Region.
Modi also laid foundation stone for second line and electrification of Allahabad-Varanasi rail line and unveiled setting up of perishable cargo centre at Rajatalab Railway Station.
Speaking at the occasion, he said his government has focused on timely completion of projects and has worked towards ensuring that not only are foundations laid, but projects are also inaugurated on time.
He said the real aim of government initiatives is proper execution and touching people's lives.
"In a way, projects worth Rs 5,000 crore are being dedicated to Kashi," the Prime Minister said.
According to information made available by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, "Urja Ganga is a 2540-km-long gas pipeline which will ensure supply of clean and eco- friendly fuel to at least seven major cities - Varanasi, Patna, Jamshedpur, Kolkata, Ranchi, Bhubaneswar and Cuttack".
"The project, which is likely to be completed by 2020, will also help revival of a number of moribund fertilizer manufacturing units.
"Besides bringing piped natural gas to millions of households, the project will also enable at least half a million vehicles to switch over to CNG mode, which will go a long way in development of smart cities", the Ministry said.
Modi also laid the foundation stone for doubling and electrification of 120-km-long Varanasi-Madhosingh-Allahabad railway line involving an expenditure of Rs 750.66 crore.
He also dedicated to the nation an expansion project of the Diesel Locomotive Works, which had commenced in 2014, months after he became the Prime Minister.