Women-led Operations Make Namo Bharat Service a Symbol of Empowerment: PM Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that improved law and order in Uttar Pradesh, along with rapid infrastructure development under the BJP's "double-engine government," has transformed connectivity and public confidence in the state, as he inaugurated the Namo Bharat Rapid Rail and the Meerut Metro services from the same platform at Shatabdi Nagar Namo Bharat Station.
Addressing a gathering after the launch, the Prime Minister said that areas which were once deserted after sunset are now being linked by modern, safe and efficient transport systems.
He also recalled his interaction with students and other passengers during a ride on the Meerut Metro earlier in the day.
"Everyone can recall the old days. Especially the sisters and daughters told me that a few years ago, the entire route would fall silent after evening. There used to be an atmosphere of fear and apprehension. Now, the law and order system has improved, and people have convenient and safe travel," he said.
Describing the launch of the Rapid Rail and Metro services as a "new revolution" for a Viksit Uttar Pradesh and a Viksit Bharat, the Prime Minister highlighted that for the first time the Namo Bharat Rapid Rail and Metro services were inaugurated on the same day from the same platform.
"Today, a new revolution is gaining energy for a developed Uttar Pradesh and a developed India. For the first time today, from the same platform, the Namo Bharat Rapid Rail and Metro Service are being inaugurated on the same day. This is a splendid glimpse of what the connectivity of a Viksit Bharat will be like," he said.
He added that the modern Namo Bharat trains would accelerate the vision of integrated metro systems and twin-city development in the greater urban region, and expressed satisfaction over the project's completion in Uttar Pradesh.
"Metro within the city and a modern train like Namo Bharat to accelerate the vision of twin cities. I am satisfied that this work has been done in Uttar Pradesh. Today's program also reflects the work culture of the double-engine government of the BJP. Our work culture is that we have to work day and night to finish the project whose foundation stone has been laid," he added.
The Prime Minister also underscored the role of women in the new transport systems, noting that the Namo Bharat Rapid Rail has become a symbol of women's empowerment, with many train operators, station operators and staff members being women.
"I am happy that this service is being led by our daughters," he said.
How will the Namo Bharat Rapid Rail and Meerut Metro transform travel time between Meerut and Delhi?
After the flag-off ceremony, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said that the Prime Minister had once again presented a "major gift" to the state.
Addressing a large gathering in Meerut, he said, "Prime Minister has once again presented a major gift: the Namo Bharat Semi-Speed Rail. Meerut is being presented with the gift of a metro train along with the Namo Bharat train, just before Holi".
Highlighting the transformation of the Meerut-Delhi route, the Chief Minister said that what once took 4 to 5 hours has now been reduced to about 40 to 45 minutes due to improved infrastructure.
"10-11 years ago, the distance from Meerut to Delhi was a challenge in itself. It took 4-5 hours of hard work to cover it... But today, a 12-lane highway and expressway connect Delhi to Meerut. A total of 40-45 minutes to reach Delhi. The new gifts of the Prime Minister today, the Namo Bharat Rapid Rail and the Meerut Metro, are in themselves bringing this distance even closer..."
(With inputs from ANI)