Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched infrastructure projects worth over 17,300 crore rupees in Tamil Nadu today. In Thoothukudi, Mr Modi laid the foundation stone for the Outer Harbor Container Terminal at V. O. Chidambaranar Port. The terminal will transform the port into a transshipment hub for the east coast, leveraging India’s coastline and geographic location to enhance competitiveness in global trade. It will also boost employment and economic growth in the region. Prime Minister also inaugurated projects to establish the V. O. Chidambaranar Port as India’s first Green Hydrogen Hub Port, including a desalination plant, hydrogen production, and bunkering facility. Mr Modi also launched India’s first indigenous green hydrogen fuel cell inland waterway vessel as part of the Harit Nauka initiative, highlighting India’s commitment to clean energy solutions and net-zero goals. Prime Minister also dedicated tourist facilities in 75 lighthouses across ten States and Union Territories and unveiled rail projects aimed at doubling the Vanchi Maniyachchi – Nagercoil rail line and the Melappalayam – Aralvaymoli section. Developed at the cost of about 1,477 crore rupees, the doubling project will help in reducing travel time for the trains heading towards Chennai from Kanyakumari, Nagercoil & Tirunelveli. Four road projects in Tamil Nadu, developed at a total cost of about 4,586 crore rupees were also inaugurated to enhance connectivity, promote socio-economic growth, and facilitate pilgrimage visits in the region.
Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for a new launch complex of ISRO at Kulasekarapattinam. To be built at a cost about 986 crore rupees, the facility is set to accommodate 24 launches per year. The new ISRO complex includes 35 facilities, and features a mobile launch structure (MLS) with checkout computers, marking a significant stride in enhancing space exploration capabilities.
