PM Modi Launches Development Projects Worth Over ₹13,000 Crore in Chennai
Chennai: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday inaugurated, dedicated to the nation and laid the foundation stone for several development projects worth over ₹13,000 crore in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, highlighting their potential to improve connectivity, strengthen industries and create employment opportunities.
Addressing the gathering, Modi said the projects would make daily travel easier, reduce transportation time and support the growth of Tamil Nadu’s industrial and commercial sectors. He emphasised that infrastructure development and industrial expansion must go hand in hand to accelerate economic growth.
The Prime Minister highlighted the expansion of the Chennai Metro, describing improved public transport as essential for urban development. He noted that India’s metro network had expanded from approximately 250 kilometres in 2014 to more than 1,100 kilometres, with services now operating in 25 cities, compared with five cities previously.
Modi also underscored Tamil Nadu’s contribution to India’s manufacturing sector, particularly electronics, engineering and small-scale industries. Citing the growth of domestic manufacturing, he said electronics exports had increased significantly since 2014, while defence exports had recorded substantial growth. He added that manufacturing expansion was generating employment opportunities for young people.
The projects also include an advanced lubricant base oil facility, which is expected to create jobs and help reduce India’s dependence on imports. The Prime Minister stressed that better road and railway connectivity would support industries by improving the movement of raw materials and finished products.
Highlighting maritime development, Modi referred to the proposed investment of around ₹17,000 crore to transform V.O. Chidambaranar Port in Thoothukudi into a major container and green energy hub.
He also outlined initiatives to strengthen Tamil Nadu’s fisheries sector, including harbour modernisation, improved cold-chain facilities, fishing infrastructure and support for fishermen through government schemes.
Earlier, the Prime Minister visited the Brain Research Centre at IIT Madras and highlighted the importance of scientific research in addressing public health challenges.
Connecting Tamil Nadu’s cultural heritage with its development ambitions, Modi said infrastructure growth and cultural traditions could progress together. He reiterated the Centre’s commitment to supporting the state’s development and called for collective efforts towards building a developed India through a developed Tamil Nadu.