PM Modi Unveils ₹18,000 Crore Infrastructure Boost for West Bengal at Brigade Rally

PARTHA ROY, KOLKATA: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid foundation stones for infrastructure projects worth over ₹18,000 crore in Kolkata,on 14th March 2026 signaling a major push for development in West Bengal ahead of the state assembly elections in the coming months.

Addressing a massive crowd of enthusiastic saffron-clad supporters at a public rally, Modi emphasized the urgent need for implementing central government welfare schemes to foster healthy growth and ease of living for every individual in the state. “To understand what’s on the minds of West Bengal’s people, one must witness these historic scenes,” he said, highlighting the unprecedented energy as a clear indicator that “Poriborton” – or change – is inevitable.

Modi sharply criticized the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) for its alleged disdain toward the tribal community, pointing to repeated insults against President Droupadi Murmu as evidence of the party’s anti-constitutional and anti-tribal stance. He also voiced the grievances of tea garden workers, accusing the TMC government of obstructing the Pradhan Mantri Cha Sramik Kalyan Yojana (PMCSPY) scheme and denying workers their rightful benefits.

The announcements mark a new chapter for West Bengal and eastern India, focusing on roads, railways, and ports to accelerate economic activities, boost trade, and create opportunities. Key projects include the Kharagpur-Moregram Expressway, Dubrajpur bypass, and major bridges over the Kangshabati and Shilabati rivers to enhance connectivity.

In a railway modernization drive, Modi dedicated the automatic block signaling system in the Kalaikunda-Kanimahuli sections and inaugurated six stations as “Amrit Stations,” infusing Bengal’s cultural heritage into their redesign. A new express train service from Purulia to Anand Vihar Terminal was flagged off, benefiting residents across West Bengal, Jharkhand, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi.

Port upgrades feature mechanization at Haldia Dock Complex for faster cargo handling, renovation of Kolkata’s bascule bridge, and expanded capacity at Khidderpore Dock, strengthening eastern India’s logistics network.

“These initiatives will benefit farmers, traders, entrepreneurs, and students alike, spurring tourism and local industries,” Modi affirmed. He expressed confidence that robust connectivity and modern infrastructure would pave the way for a “Developed Bengal,” restoring the state’s historic glory as India’s guiding light.