Prime Minister Narendra Modi today inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for a host of development projects worth ₹5,735 crore in Bihar's Siwan district. This significant investment across water, rail, and power sectors, including urban development and road schemes, marks a strong emphasis on boosting infrastructure and improving the quality of life for the people of Bihar.

The Prime Minister's visit to Siwan, his fifth to Bihar this year, saw the inauguration and foundation stone laying for a total of 32 development projects. These include 22 urban development schemes, highlighting the government's focus on enhancing civic amenities and modernizing urban centers in the state. Six road projects were also inaugurated, aimed at improving connectivity and reducing travel times across key regions. Additionally, foundation stones were laid for 11 projects under the ambitious Amrit Bharat scheme and four initiatives under the Namami Gange Pariyojana, signaling continued efforts towards river rejuvenation and sustainable urban infrastructure.

A major highlight of the day was the inauguration of the new Vaishali-Deoria railway line project, a crucial addition to the state's rail network. This project, built at a cost of over ₹400 crore, is expected to significantly improve connectivity in the region. Further bolstering railway infrastructure, PM Modi flagged off a new Vande Bharat Express train connecting Pataliputra Junction near Patna to Gorakhpur in Uttar Pradesh. This high-speed rail service is anticipated to provide a faster and more comfortable travel experience for commuters in North Bihar.

In a proud moment for the 'Make in India - Make for the World' initiative, Prime Minister Modi also flagged off the first export locomotive manufactured at the Marhowra Plant in Saran district. This state-of-the-art locomotive, destined for the Republic of Guinea, showcases India's growing manufacturing prowess and its emergence as a global player in advanced railway technology. The locomotive boasts high-horsepower engines, advanced AC propulsion, regenerative braking, and microprocessor-based controls.

The Namami Gange program received a fresh impetus with the inauguration of six new Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) collectively worth over ₹1,800 crore. These projects are designed to significantly reduce pollution in the Ganga River and improve sanitation facilities in towns across Bihar. Additionally, the foundation stone was laid for sanitation and water supply projects worth over ₹3,000 crore in various towns, aiming to ensure access to clean and safe drinking water for thousands of households.

In a step towards enhancing renewable energy efficiency and grid stability, PM Modi laid the foundation stone for a 500 MWh Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) capacity. These standalone storage units, ranging from 20 MWh to 80 MWh, will be installed at 15 substations across the state, including Siwan, Muzaffarpur, Bettiah, and Motihari. This initiative will enable distribution companies to store electricity during off-peak hours and supply it during peak demand, thereby reducing costs and improving power reliability for consumers.

The Prime Minister's commitment to 'Housing for All' was also reaffirmed with the release of the first installment of assistance to over 53,600 beneficiaries under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana - Urban (PMAY-U). In a symbolic gesture, keys were also handed over to select beneficiaries of 6,600 newly completed houses, marking their Grih Pravesh (housewarming) ceremony.

This visit, marked by a preceding roadshow in Siwan, highlights the central government's intensified focus on Bihar's development, especially in the lead-up to the state assembly elections scheduled for October-November. The comprehensive nature of the projects, spanning crucial sectors, aims to bring about holistic socio-economic development and improve the lives of millions in Bihar.