Prime Minister discusses education, AI, defence, maritime development, ports, manufacturing and exports during third high-level meeting with secretaries

Modi reviews key policy areas

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held the third high-level meeting with Central government secretaries in New Delhi on Thursday, reviewing a range of issues related to infrastructure, connectivity, security, foreign affairs, education, technology and manufacturing.

The meeting was held at the Prime Minister's residence at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg. According to the Prime Minister's Office, Modi called for stronger engagement between government departments, universities and young people to bring new ideas into policy-making.

The focus on youth comes amid the government's recent efforts to increase engagement with students following protests in Delhi over the alleged NEET paper leak and examination-related concerns.

Focus on youth and education

Modi stressed the need for government officials to establish greater dialogue with universities and young people.

The Prime Minister said such engagement could help policymakers receive fresh perspectives and develop new approaches to existing challenges.

The government has also increased its use of social media to communicate with young audiences. Modi recently interacted with students through Instagram reels and has encouraged ministers to maintain an active presence on social media platforms.

The emphasis on direct engagement reflects an attempt to connect policy discussions more closely with students, researchers and younger citizens.

Data and AI use discussed

Another major focus of the meeting was the use of data and artificial intelligence in governance.

Modi called for better utilisation of data and AI while stressing that human oversight and decision-making must remain an important part of AI-based systems.

The Prime Minister also highlighted the need to increase research and innovation across sectors, with particular attention to defence-related research.

Officials were asked to focus not only on immediate challenges but also on the country's long-term requirements.

Infrastructure and connectivity

Infrastructure and connectivity were also discussed during the meeting.

Modi called for infrastructure planning to be aligned with future requirements and stressed better coordination between different ministries.

He also discussed the need to improve connectivity for manufacturing and export-oriented industries.

The objective, according to the meeting's agenda, was to ensure that infrastructure development supports broader economic activity rather than being pursued in isolation.

Defence and maritime strategy

The meeting also covered security and foreign policy, with officials discussing future priorities for the ministries handling these areas.

In the defence sector, Modi emphasised research and innovation as important tools for making India more competitive globally.

The maritime sector was another key area of discussion. The Prime Minister called for a comprehensive strategy aimed at strengthening India's maritime capabilities.

The focus comes as India seeks to expand its role in shipping, shipbuilding, ports and related industries.

Shipbuilding gets attention

Modi also reviewed the government's shipbuilding priorities.

Shipbuilding has recently received infrastructure status, and the Prime Minister asked officials to monitor whether the targets set for the sector are being achieved.

The move is aimed at strengthening domestic shipbuilding capacity and improving India's competitiveness in the global maritime industry.

Officials were also asked to look beyond simply increasing the number of ports and instead focus on broader port-led development.

Manufacturing and exports

Manufacturing and exports formed another important part of the discussions.

Modi stressed the importance of providing better connectivity to manufacturing centres and export units. Improved infrastructure and logistics can help reduce transportation costs and improve the competitiveness of Indian products in international markets.

The discussions therefore linked infrastructure development with wider industrial and export objectives.

Focus on present and future

Sharing details of the meeting on X, Modi said the discussions covered the work of ministries dealing with infrastructure, connectivity, security and foreign affairs.

The Prime Minister asked secretaries to address current problems using available data while simultaneously keeping the country's future requirements in mind.

The meeting brought together several policy priorities — from youth engagement and education to AI, research, defence, maritime development, shipbuilding, ports and exports — with the broader objective of improving coordination and long-term planning across government departments.

Madhya Pradesh is stepping up its industrial and infrastructure push with new economic corridors, improved connectivity and plans aimed at attracting manufacturing and logistics investments. One of the most prominent projects is the Indore–Pithampur Economic Corridor, whose first phase has been launched with an estimated investment of ₹2,360 crore.

The 20.28-km corridor is expected to connect Indore’s Super Corridor with the Pithampur industrial area and improve the movement of people and goods between two of Madhya Pradesh’s important economic centres. The state government has projected that the project could generate around 6 lakh employment opportunities over time.

But what exactly is an industrial corridor, and does building one automatically mean thousands of new jobs?

What is an industrial corridor?

An industrial corridor is not simply a large road connecting two cities.

It is a planned economic zone where roads, railways, logistics facilities, power, water, industrial land and other infrastructure are developed together to make it easier for companies to establish factories and businesses.

At the national level, India is developing industrial corridors under the National Industrial Corridor Development Programme (NICDP). The Centre says projects under 11 industrial corridors are currently being implemented, with the objective of creating modern manufacturing hubs, multimodal connectivity and plug-and-play industrial infrastructure.

For Madhya Pradesh, this model is particularly significant because of the state's central location and existing industrial clusters.

Why is MP focusing on corridors?

Madhya Pradesh already has established industrial centres such as Pithampur, Indore, Dewas and Ujjain. The state is also connected to major national transport routes.

The state's industrial investment strategy includes areas linked to the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor, along with other proposed investment corridors. The state government has highlighted connectivity, industrial land availability and infrastructure as key factors for attracting companies.

The logic is straightforward: better connectivity can reduce transportation time and logistics costs, making it easier for manufacturers to bring in raw materials and send finished products to markets.

How can corridors create jobs?

The first layer is construction employment.

Large roads, bridges, industrial parks, warehouses and utilities require engineers, drivers, construction workers, technicians and other workers during the development phase.

The bigger employment impact, however, is expected to come after industries move in.

Factories can create direct jobs in manufacturing, while logistics companies, warehouses, transport operators, maintenance firms, food businesses and other service providers can create additional employment.

Existing industrial development around Pithampur illustrates this ecosystem effect. A state-linked industrial information source says the Pithampur SEZ has around 50 industrial units and approximately 16,000 jobs.

Will 6 lakh jobs actually be created?

This is where the headline numbers need to be treated carefully.

The 6-lakh figure is a projected employment opportunity associated with the Indore–Pithampur Economic Corridor, rather than a guarantee that six lakh people will immediately receive permanent jobs.

Actual employment will depend on how quickly industrial land is developed, how many companies establish operations, the size of investments, the sectors involved and whether local workers have the required skills.

There is also an important distinction between direct and indirect employment. A new manufacturing unit may employ a limited number of people directly but support many more jobs through suppliers, transport, maintenance, retail and other services.

Infrastructure alone is not enough

A corridor can provide roads and industrial land, but companies ultimately need reliable electricity, water, skilled workers, clearances, logistics facilities and access to markets.

The Centre itself has stressed the need for faster completion of industrial-corridor infrastructure, land allotment, investment and production.

For MP, the challenge will therefore be to convert infrastructure announcements and investment proposals into operational factories and businesses.

What could it mean for MP workers?

If the projects attract substantial manufacturing and logistics investment, employment opportunities could expand not only in Indore and Pithampur but also in surrounding districts.

However, the quality of employment will depend heavily on skill development. Jobs in modern manufacturing, automation, logistics and technology increasingly require specialised training.

This means industrial corridors could become a bigger employment engine for Madhya Pradesh—but only if infrastructure development is accompanied by investment, production and workforce training.

The bigger picture

Madhya Pradesh's industrial strategy is increasingly moving towards connecting infrastructure with manufacturing and logistics. The proposed Indore–Pithampur corridor is one example of this approach, while broader national industrial-corridor programmes are designed to create integrated manufacturing ecosystems.

So, can an industrial corridor create jobs? Yes—but a road alone cannot.

The real test will be how many industries actually set up operations, how much production begins, how many local people are hired and whether the promised investment translates into long-term economic activity.

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YouTube link- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iH1-mFZ0ab0

The Chhattisgarh High Court has directed authorities to complete electricity infrastructure upgrades in Bilaspur within a fixed timeline after reviewing measures being undertaken by the state power department and the Municipal Corporation to improve civic services.

A Division Bench comprising Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha and Justice Ravindra Kumar Agrawal reviewed progress reports submitted by both departments and instructed officials to file a fresh status report by August 25 while ensuring that all proposed works are completed in a time-bound manner.

Three New Substations Planned

To address recurring issues of power outages, tripping and low voltage, the state power distribution company has proposed the construction of three new substations and two additional electricity supply zones in Bilaspur.

The proposed supply zones, Mangla Zone and Koni Zone, have already been forwarded to the power department headquarters in Raipur for approval.

Officials also informed the court that land allocation procedures have begun for a new Extra High Voltage (EHV) substation at Lokhandi village, while separate requests have been submitted to the district administration for land to establish 33/11 kV substations near Jawali Nala (Old Bus Stand area) and Mangla River View.

Damaged Poles Replaced

The electricity department stated that 21 deteriorated cement electricity poles, considered a safety risk, have been removed and replaced with steel poles.

To improve emergency response during the monsoon, a tender was issued on July 23 for the procurement of new sky-lift vehicles, which will assist in repairing high-tension lines and transformers. Until new equipment is available, the department is coordinating with the Municipal Corporation to use vehicles from other government agencies whenever required.

₹10 Crore for Covered Power Lines

The department also informed the High Court that the state government has sanctioned an additional ₹10 crore to convert open overhead electricity lines into covered conductors, a move aimed at reducing power disruptions caused by falling advertisement boards, tree branches and strong winds.

Authorities have also identified illegal hoardings and structures affecting power lines using GPS mapping and shared the details with the Municipal Corporation for removal.

Additional field staff have been deployed to strengthen maintenance and emergency response operations.

Municipal Corporation Reports Monsoon Preparedness

The Bilaspur Municipal Corporation informed the court that a 24-hour Flood Control Cell is functioning at Vikas Bhavan, Nehru Chowk to monitor monsoon-related complaints.

Officials said desilting of drains across all eight municipal zones was completed before the onset of the monsoon.

Complaints received at the control room are being recorded and addressed promptly. Preventive measures, including bleaching powder spraying, fogging operations and regular drain cleaning, are also being carried out in waterlogged areas to reduce the risk of disease outbreaks.

High Court Seeks Progress Report

While noting the measures taken by both departments, the Division Bench directed officials to ensure that all proposed infrastructure projects move forward without unnecessary delay.

The court has asked the authorities to submit a comprehensive status report before the next hearing on August 25, detailing the progress of all ongoing works.

The Chhattisgarh High Court has taken a stern view of the growing number of deaths caused by lightning strikes, exposed electrical wires, and illegal electric fencing across the state. Hearing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL), the court questioned whether public safety measures were limited to official paperwork or were actually being implemented on the ground.

A Division Bench comprising Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha and Justice Ravindra Kumar Agrawal directed the state government and the Chhattisgarh State Power Distribution Company Limited (CSPDCL) to explain the concrete steps being taken to prevent such accidents. The court has asked the power utility to submit a comprehensive status report by August 18, the next date of hearing.

Court Questions Delay in Safety Measures

During the hearing, the bench raised concerns over the state's response to recurring electrocution incidents and asked what progress had been made in preparing a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) aimed at preventing electrical accidents.

The judges observed that issuing circulars and administrative orders alone would not ensure public safety unless visible improvements were seen on the ground.

The court emphasized that effective implementation, regular monitoring, and accountability were essential to reducing fatalities caused by electrical hazards.

Power Company Files Affidavit

In compliance with the High Court's earlier directions issued on July 6, 2026, the Principal Secretary of the Energy Department and the Managing Director of CSPDCL submitted personal affidavits before the court.

The affidavits revealed that under the Chhattisgarh State Electricity Supply Code, 2011, Clause 5.35 had earlier made it mandatory for low-tension electricity consumers to submit a licensed contractor's wiring test report before obtaining a new power connection or after completing electrical wiring.

However, the power company informed the court that this mandatory requirement had been withdrawn through an order issued on March 2, 2026, a development that drew attention during the proceedings.

High-Level Committee Formed

The state government informed the court that a high-level committee had been constituted on July 20, 2026, to prepare a comprehensive SOP for preventing electrical accidents and improving public safety.

The committee includes senior CSPDCL officials along with the state's Electrical Inspector. It has been tasked with developing safety protocols, identifying risk factors, and recommending preventive measures to reduce electrocution-related incidents.

Illegal Electric Fencing Among Major Causes

According to the affidavit submitted by CSPDCL, a significant number of electrocution deaths occur due to:

• Illegal electrification of farm and boundary fencing.
• Construction work carried out without minimum electrical safety standards.
• Unsafe electrical installations.
• Exposure to live wires during maintenance and unauthorized connections.

The company stated that it has designated senior officials and regional Additional Chief Engineers as Electrical Safety Officers in accordance with the Central Electricity Authority Safety Regulations, 2023, and provisions of the Electricity Act, 2003.

Awareness Campaigns Underway

CSPDCL also informed the court that awareness campaigns and workshops are being organized across rural and urban areas to educate people about safe electricity usage and discourage illegal power connections, commonly known as "hooking."

Officials said these initiatives aim to improve public awareness regarding electrical hazards while encouraging compliance with safety standards.

High Court Seeks Accountability

Despite these assurances, the High Court observed that forming committees and issuing directions would not be sufficient unless measurable action was visible on the ground.

The bench directed the Principal Secretary of the Energy Department and the Managing Director of CSPDCL to submit a detailed report explaining:

• The progress made by the committee formed on July 20.
• The status of the proposed Standard Operating Procedure.
• Measures taken to strengthen electrical infrastructure.
• Steps adopted for regular inspection and maintenance.
• Efforts to ensure strict compliance with safety regulations across the state.

The matter will now be heard on August 18, when the court is expected to review the implementation of the proposed safety measures and the state's preparedness to prevent further electrocution and lightning-related fatalities.

The Chief Minister inaugurated the flyover at around 11 am before taking a brief walk on the structure and posing for photographs near the foundation stone. During the event, supporters gathered at the venue and raised slogans of “Jai Shri Ram” as the Chief Minister interacted with local leaders and officials.

The six-lane flyover has been constructed at a cost of ₹429.49 crore and is regarded as one of Gorakhpur’s biggest transport infrastructure projects in recent years. According to officials, the elevated corridor is designed to reduce traffic bottlenecks on one of the city’s busiest entry routes and provide smoother movement for commuters travelling towards Lucknow, Varanasi, Prayagraj, Azamgarh, Kushinagar, Deoria, Maharajganj, Bihar and Nepal.

Alongside the flyover inauguration, Chief Minister Adityanath also inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for development projects worth nearly ₹995 crore across Gorakhpur. The programme included the inauguration of completed infrastructure works and the launch of several new civic projects aimed at improving urban facilities.

Among the key projects announced is the construction of a Working Women’s Hostel at an estimated cost of ₹47.38 crore. The government also approved an underpass and service road from Nandnagar Police Post to Shamsher Gate to eliminate delays caused by the railway level crossing. This project is estimated to cost ₹73.64 crore.

Another major initiative is the Science Museum proposed near University Chowk under the State Smart City Scheme, with a sanctioned cost of ₹49.60 crore. The government also announced the establishment of a Centre of Excellence at the Government Women’s Polytechnic in collaboration with Tata Technologies Limited, costing ₹7.07 crore.

In addition, the depot workshop at Raptinagar will undergo tyre shop upgradation at a cost of ₹2.47 crore, while several neighbourhood-level civic projects involving CC roads and drainage works have also been sanctioned across different municipal wards.

These include:

• CC Road construction in Ward No. 18 (Pawan Vihar) – ₹49.72 lakh
• CC Road in Ward No. 25 (Girdharganj) – ₹23.46 lakh
• CC Road and drainage work in Ward No. 20 (Lachhipur) – ₹49 lakh
• CC Road and drainage in Nandnagar Dargahiya – ₹8.09 lakh
• CC Road and drainage in Ward No. 70 (Chandrashekhar Azad Canal area) – ₹29.56 lakh

Officials said these projects are intended to strengthen urban infrastructure while improving road connectivity, drainage facilities and public amenities in various parts of Gorakhpur.

The newly inaugurated flyover is expected to play a key role in reducing travel time on the Nausad–TP Nagar–Padleganj corridor, which serves as a major gateway into the city for traffic arriving from eastern Uttar Pradesh and neighbouring states. The project was launched in 2023 and completed in 2026 following multiple reviews by the state government.

With the launch of the flyover and multiple civic projects, the state government aims to further strengthen Gorakhpur’s transport network and support the city’s ongoing urban development initiatives.

India's aviation industry could witness a major shift as billionaire Gautam Adani-led Adani Group is reportedly evaluating plans to launch its own passenger airline. According to Reuters, citing people familiar with the matter, the conglomerate is exploring the possibility of entering the airline business while simultaneously seeking changes to government regulations that currently restrict airport operators from owning significant stakes in scheduled airlines.

No final decision has been taken, sources told Reuters, as the group continues to assess the commercial viability of the proposal. The airline business is known for high operating costs, intense competition and thin profit margins, making it one of the most challenging sectors globally.

Rule Change Under Discussion

Current aviation regulations restrict operators of Delhi and Mumbai airports from holding more than a 10% stake in a scheduled airline. According to reports, the Adani Group has approached the government seeking a relaxation of these norms, which would enable it to either launch or acquire an airline. The proposal is reportedly under consideration, though any amendment would require legal review and approval from the Union Cabinet.

Neither the Adani Group nor the Ministry of Civil Aviation has officially commented on the reports.

Adani's Growing Aviation Presence

The Adani Group has rapidly expanded its footprint in India's airport infrastructure since entering the sector in 2019 through Adani Airport Holdings Limited (AAHL), a subsidiary of Adani Enterprises.

Today, AAHL manages eight airports across the country, including Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Lucknow, Jaipur, Guwahati, Mangaluru, Thiruvananthapuram and the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport. The company has also announced multi-billion-dollar investments to modernise airport infrastructure and expand passenger handling capacity.

Industry experts believe owning an airline could allow the group to integrate airport operations with airline services, strengthening its presence across the aviation value chain.

Market Dominated by Two Airlines

India's domestic aviation market is currently dominated by IndiGo and Air India, which together account for nearly 90% of passenger traffic. IndiGo holds more than 65% of the domestic market, while Air India controls around one-fourth of total passenger share.

Government officials reportedly see the entry of another financially strong airline as a way to improve competition, increase passenger choices and reduce market concentration.

However, aviation experts have also highlighted potential concerns over conflict of interest if airport operators are permitted to own airlines. Rival carriers are expected to oppose any policy change, arguing that airport owners could gain an unfair advantage in slot allocation, ground handling and infrastructure access.

Industry Challenges Remain

Despite India's position as one of the world's fastest-growing aviation markets, launching a successful airline remains a difficult task. Rising fuel prices, aircraft shortages, operational expenses and intense fare competition continue to pressure airline profitability.

Sources familiar with the discussions said Adani Group is evaluating multiple options, including starting a new carrier or acquiring a stake in an existing airline. No timeline has been finalised, and the company is yet to make any official announcement regarding its future plans.

The reported move also comes at a time when the government is looking to strengthen India's aviation ecosystem, improve regional connectivity and encourage long-term investment in the sector.

The temporary suspension of several local passenger and MEMU services was announced earlier to facilitate non-interlocking work and the commissioning of an automatic signalling system on the third railway line between Bhatapara and Hathband in Raipur Division. The project is part of SECR's broader network modernisation programme aimed at improving operational efficiency and increasing route capacity.

With the completion of the scheduled engineering work, railway authorities confirmed that the cancelled MEMU services have resumed operation from Wednesday, bringing normalcy back to one of the busiest suburban rail corridors in Chhattisgarh.

The restoration comes as a significant relief for thousands of daily commuters, office-goers, students and small traders who rely on MEMU services connecting Bilaspur, Raipur, Bhatapara, Hathband and nearby stations. The temporary cancellations had affected regular travel plans across the region over the past two days.

Railway officials said the signalling upgrade forms an important part of the ongoing third-line expansion project. The introduction of automatic signalling is expected to improve train movement, reduce congestion and enhance operational safety by allowing better management of traffic on the section.

During the maintenance period, SECR had cancelled multiple MEMU and passenger trains while advising passengers to verify train schedules before travelling. The cancellations were planned in advance to enable uninterrupted execution of the technical work required for commissioning the upgraded signalling system.

Officials have stated that while passengers experienced short-term inconvenience, the completed infrastructure upgrade is expected to benefit railway operations in the long run. The modern signalling arrangement will help increase line capacity and support smoother movement of both passenger and freight trains on the route.

The Bhatapara–Hathband section plays an important role within the Bilaspur–Raipur rail network, serving thousands of commuters every day while also handling substantial freight traffic. Railway authorities have been implementing phased upgrades across the corridor to accommodate rising traffic demand and improve punctuality.

With services now restored, passengers have been advised to continue checking official railway updates for any operational changes related to future infrastructure works. Railway officials also appealed for public cooperation during such projects, noting that temporary disruptions are often necessary to strengthen railway infrastructure and improve safety standards.

The successful completion of the signalling work marks another milestone in SECR's ongoing network modernisation efforts, with normal train operations now resuming across the affected section.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off the train at Jind during his visit to Haryana, describing the project as a significant step towards cleaner and environmentally sustainable public transport. The hydrogen-powered train has been designed and developed using indigenous technology as part of the government's push to reduce carbon emissions and expand green mobility solutions across the railway network.

Unlike conventional diesel-powered trains, the new train generates electricity onboard through hydrogen fuel cells. The system combines hydrogen with oxygen to produce electrical energy, with water vapour and heat emerging as the only by-products of the process. The technology eliminates direct carbon emissions during operation and is considered a cleaner alternative for rail transport on non-electrified or partially electrified routes.

The train will operate on the 89-kilometre Jind-Sonipat route under Northern Railway. It has been introduced as a pilot project to evaluate the performance of hydrogen-powered rail transport under Indian operating conditions. Officials believe the experience gained from this service will help determine the future expansion of hydrogen-based railway technology in the country.

The train consists of two hydrogen-powered driving cars and eight passenger coaches. Together, the propulsion system generates around 2,400 kW of power, making it one of the world's most powerful hydrogen-powered passenger trainsets in its category. Indian Railways has also established a dedicated hydrogen production, storage and refuelling facility at Jind to support regular operations.

Multiple safety mechanisms have been incorporated into the train, including hydrogen leak detection, fire and smoke sensors, heat monitoring systems and automated safety controls. Railway officials have stated that the train underwent extensive testing before receiving approval for passenger operations.

The hydrogen train forms part of Indian Railways' broader strategy to adopt cleaner technologies while improving energy efficiency. With Indian Railways already having electrified most of its broad-gauge network, hydrogen-powered trains are expected to serve routes where conventional electrification may not be practical or economically viable.

Experts believe the project could open new opportunities for the adoption of alternative fuels in the transport sector. If the pilot proves successful, similar hydrogen-powered trains may be introduced on additional routes in the coming years as India continues to pursue its long-term sustainability and net-zero objectives.

The Union Cabinet has approved the construction of a six-lane Greenfield Elevated Corridor along the Ganga River in Varanasi, a major infrastructure project aimed at reducing urban congestion, improving regional connectivity and strengthening multimodal transport links in one of India's busiest pilgrimage and cultural cities.

The project, approved by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, will be developed under the National Highways (Original) [NH(O)] programme using the Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM). The total capital investment for the project has been pegged at ₹14,447.64 crore.

The proposed 46.039-kilometre corridor will connect National Highway-19 with the Varanasi Ring Road, providing a high-speed, access-controlled route along the Ganga riverfront. The project will feature a six-lane elevated main carriageway, ramps, loops, service roads, a landmark cable-stayed bridge, and an extradosed foot-over bridge equipped with travelators.

Designed to Cut Travel Time

According to the government, the corridor has been designed for operating speeds of 80–100 kmph, significantly reducing travel time across the city.

The average travel duration on the affected stretch is expected to decline from nearly 60 minutes to around 20 minutes, representing a reduction of about 67 percent. Travel between NH-19 and Kashi Railway Station is also expected to become considerably faster, with journey time falling from nearly 50 minutes to 25 minutes.

Officials said the project will help divert through traffic away from congested urban roads, improving daily commuting conditions while reducing vehicle operating costs, fuel consumption and emissions.

Boost to Pilgrimage and Tourism

Varanasi attracts more than 15 million tourists and pilgrims annually, making efficient transport infrastructure increasingly important for the city's economy and visitor experience.

The elevated corridor will improve access to several prominent religious, educational and cultural destinations, including Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Namo Ghat, Ramnagar Fort, and the historic ghats along the Ganga.

The project also includes an elevated spur between BHU/Lanka and Samne Ghat, intended to ease congestion at the busy Lanka intersection, one of the city's major traffic bottlenecks.

Strengthening Multimodal Connectivity

The government said the corridor aligns with the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, enhancing seamless connectivity between highways, railway stations, airports and inland waterways.

The project will provide improved access to major transport hubs including Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, Kashi Railway Station, Banaras Railway Station, Varanasi City Railway Station, Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Junction, and the Ramnagar Inland Waterways Port.

It will also strengthen connectivity to the Chandauli Special Economic Zone (SEZ), an aspirational district, and multiple logistics centres, supporting freight movement and regional economic development across eastern Uttar Pradesh.

Advanced Engineering Features

The corridor incorporates several high-end engineering components intended to improve both functionality and urban aesthetics.

Among its key features is a 910-metre cable-stayed bridge across the Ganga River and a 1.32-kilometre foot-over bridge-cum-major bridge fitted with travelators to facilitate pedestrian access towards the Kashi Vishwanath Temple area.

The project also includes a rail overbridge over the existing and proposed Malviya Bridge alignment, emergency parking facilities, sound barriers, architectural lighting, and design elements inspired by Varanasi's cultural heritage.

The government said these features are expected to transform the city's skyline while improving transport efficiency and reinforcing Varanasi's position as a major religious and cultural destination.

Supporting Long-Term Urban Growth

Officials believe the project will play a significant role in easing traffic congestion, improving road safety and facilitating smoother passenger and freight movement. By integrating multiple transport modes and supporting tourism, pilgrimage and commerce, the corridor is expected to contribute to sustainable urban development in eastern Uttar Pradesh.

The approval marks another major investment in Varanasi's transport infrastructure as the city continues to witness rapid expansion in road, rail and public infrastructure projects under the government's broader connectivity agenda.

The Union Cabinet has approved the construction of a 43.218-km elevated corridor along the Varuna River in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, at an estimated cost of ₹10,998.32 crore, aiming to significantly reduce urban congestion and improve connectivity across the city.

The project, cleared by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, will be implemented by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) under the Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM).

Designed as a predominantly 6/4-lane access-controlled elevated corridor, the project will connect NH-31 with the Varanasi Ring Road through a network of elevated carriageways, flyovers, ramps, loops and service roads. The total project cost includes ₹4,565.33 crore for civil construction and ₹934.91 crore for land acquisition.

Major Decongestion Project

The proposed corridor forms a key component of the Varanasi Decongestion Plan and is expected to improve connectivity between NH-31 and Kashi Railway Station, while easing traffic movement within the city.

The project will also provide faster access to major transport hubs and public landmarks, including Varanasi Ring Road, Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, Kashi Railway Station, Varanasi City Railway Station, Varanasi Junction, Deen Dayal Upadhyay Junction, Ramnagar Inland Port, Sampurnanand Sanskrit University, the city's iconic Ghats, and the neighbouring Chandauli region.

Travel Time to Be Halved

Engineered for operating speeds of 80–100 kmph, the elevated corridor is expected to reduce travel time between NH-31 and Kashi Railway Station from nearly 40 minutes to around 20 minutes, cutting journey time by approximately 50 percent.

According to the government, the project will help decongest Varanasi's road network, improve road safety, lower vehicle operating costs and facilitate smoother movement of passenger and freight traffic.

Boost to Logistics and Regional Economy

The corridor is also expected to strengthen regional connectivity by improving access to the Chandauli Socio-Economic Zone, one major social node and six key logistics hubs, supporting the objectives of the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan through enhanced multimodal integration.

The improved transport network will facilitate the movement of agricultural produce, industrial goods, construction materials and mineral resources, leading to greater logistics efficiency and supporting long-term economic growth across eastern Uttar Pradesh.

Modern Urban Transport Infrastructure

The government said the project will create a modern access-controlled urban transport corridor that enhances mobility, supports tourism, improves multimodal connectivity and contributes to better quality of life for residents and visitors in Varanasi.

Once completed, the elevated corridor is expected to play a crucial role in addressing increasing traffic demand while strengthening the city's position as a major religious, cultural and economic hub.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will undertake a one-day visit to Haryana, Chandigarh and Punjab on July 17, during which he will inaugurate and lay the foundation stone for development projects worth nearly ₹26,800 crore, covering railways, highways, healthcare, education and urban infrastructure.

A major highlight of the visit will be the launch of India's first hydrogen-powered passenger train between Jind and Sonipat in Haryana. Designed, engineered and integrated in India, the hydrogen fuel cell train is expected to mark a significant milestone in the country's clean transportation journey. Powered by hydrogen fuel cells, the train will produce zero carbon emissions, with water vapour as its only by-product. Featuring 10 coaches and a 3,200-horsepower propulsion system, it is among the world's longest and most powerful hydrogen-powered passenger trains.

Haryana to Receive Major Infrastructure Boost

In Jind, the Prime Minister will dedicate and lay the foundation stone for projects worth around ₹14,700 crore, including national highway, railway, healthcare and cultural infrastructure.

Among the key road projects is the inauguration of Packages 1 to 5 of the Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway, developed at a cost of nearly ₹9,680 crore. The expressway is expected to significantly reduce travel time between Delhi and Katra from around 14 hours to about six hours, while cutting the Delhi-Amritsar journey to nearly four hours.

He will also inaugurate the Ambala-Kala Amb four-lane highway, the Jind-Gohana Greenfield Highway, and lay the foundation stone for the Hansi-Barwala Highway project. The visit will include the inauguration of the Kurukshetra elevated railway track, aimed at easing traffic congestion and improving road safety.

The Prime Minister will dedicate new medical institutions, including Pandit Neki Ram Sharma Government Medical College in Bhiwani and Maharshi Chyawan Medical College and Rao Tula Ram Hospital in Narnaul, strengthening healthcare infrastructure and medical education in the state.

In Kurukshetra, he will also lay the foundation stone for a Sikh Museum dedicated to the legacy of Sikh Gurus and the contribution of the Sikh community to India's history and culture.

Chandigarh to Get Health and Education Projects

During his visit to Chandigarh, Prime Minister Modi will inaugurate and launch projects worth over ₹6,600 crore.

He will inaugurate the Advanced Mother and Child Centre and the Advanced Neurosciences Centre at PGIMER, enhancing tertiary healthcare services for women, children and patients requiring specialised neurological treatment.

The Prime Minister will also lay the foundation stone for a 150-bed Critical Care Block under the Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM).

In the education sector, hostel facilities for students and research scholars at Punjab Engineering College and Government College, Sector-46, will be expanded. Road infrastructure projects, including the IT City-Kurali Greenfield Highway, the Zirakpur Greenfield Bypass, and the Ambala-Chandigarh Greenfield Highway (NH-205A PR-7 corridor), will also be launched.

Rail and Road Projects in Punjab

In Jalandhar, the Prime Minister will inaugurate and lay the foundation stone for rail and highway projects worth over ₹5,470 crore.

He will inaugurate 75 redeveloped Amrit Bharat railway stations across 20 states under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, including Jalandhar Cantonment Railway Station. Developed at a cost of around ₹1,570 crore, the stations have been modernised with improved passenger amenities while incorporating regional architecture and cultural elements.

The Prime Minister will also inaugurate the Daulatpur Chowk-Kartoli railway line, developed at a cost of nearly ₹830 crore, improving rail connectivity between Punjab and Himachal Pradesh. New train services between Kartoli and Ambala, and Amritsar (Chheharta) and Varanasi, will also be flagged off.

Additionally, he will dedicate Package 6 of the Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway and lay the foundation stone for the Southern Ludhiana Greenfield Bypass, aimed at improving freight movement and reducing travel time across the region.

The projects announced during the visit are expected to strengthen transport connectivity, healthcare services, higher education infrastructure and regional economic development across Haryana, Chandigarh and Punjab.