PM Launched Infrastructure Projects Worth ₹18,700 Crore in West Bengal | 16 Mar 2026

Why in News? 

Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for multiple development projects worth about ₹18,700 crore in Kolkata, West Bengal, aimed at strengthening road, railway and port infrastructure and boosting economic growth in Eastern India. 

Key Points: 

• Major Infrastructure Projects: Development projects worth over ₹18,700 crore related to roads, railways and port infrastructure were inaugurated or launched to improve connectivity and economic activity in the region.  
• Boost Connectivity: Projects such as the Kharagpur–Moregram Expressway, Dubrajpur Bypass, and bridges over the Kangsabati and Shilabati rivers will enhance transportation and accelerate economic development in the state. 
• Railway Modernization: The Automatic Block Signalling System on the Kalaikunda–Kanimahuli section was dedicated to the nation to improve safety, capacity and speed of trains.  
  • Six railway stations — Kamakhyaguri, Anara, Tamluk, Haldia, Barabhum, and Siuri — were inaugurated as Amrit Bharat Stations. 
  • A new express train service between Purulia and Anand Vihar Terminal was flagged off, which will benefit passengers from West Bengal, Jharkhand, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Delhi. 
• Port Development: Ports such as Kolkata Port and Haldia Dock Complex are being strengthened, including mechanization of cargo operations at Haldia Dock Complex to increase efficiency and trade capacity. 
• Logistics Improvement: Projects like the renovation of the Bascule Bridge in the Kolkata Dock System and increased cargo handling capacity at Kidderpore Dock will strengthen the logistics ecosystem in Eastern India. 
• Economic Impact: The initiatives are expected to boost trade, industry, tourism, and employment opportunities while improving the quality of life for citizens across West Bengal and Eastern India.