Rolls out Highway, Rail and Broadcast Projects

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for infrastructure projects worth over ₹4,400 crore in Madurai. He described the initiatives as a “proud chapter in Tamil Nadu’s development journey”. PM also reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to inclusive growth in the state.

Official Statement from the Prime Minister

Addressing a public gathering in the temple city, Prime Minister Narendra Modi outlined the expected impact of the projects. He said they will improve connectivity, boost economic activity, create jobs and benefit lakhs across the region.

“Better roads for farmers to reach markets, easier travel for pilgrims and tourists, and faster transport for businesses – building high-quality infrastructure is about empowering people,” he said.

Four-Laning Projects Announced

Among the major works, the Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for four-laning of the Marakkanam–Puducherry section of NH-332A. He also initiated four-laning of the Paramakudi–Ramanathapuram section of NH-87. 

The Marakkanam–Puducherry stretch involves an investment of over ₹2,100 crore. The project is expected to ease congestion in Puducherry’s urban areas. As a result, travel time may drop by nearly 50 per cent, from around one hour to 30 minutes.

The corridor will strengthen connectivity to Mamallapuram (Mahabalipuram), Kalpakkam Atomic Power Station and Auroville. It will also improve access between coastal villages and the Viluppuram district headquarters.

NH-87 to Improve Pilgrimage Access

The Paramakudi–Ramanathapuram four-laning project carries an investment of over ₹1,800 crore. Once completed, travel time on the stretch is expected to reduce by around 40 per cent. It may come down from nearly one hour to about 35 minutes.

The upgraded route will enhance access to key pilgrimage centres including Madurai, Rameswaram and Dhanushkodi. The project will also boost multi-modal connectivity across the region. In addition, it will link major railway stations, airports such as INS Parundu, and non-major ports at Pamban and Rameswaram.

Both corridors are aligned with the PM Gati Shakti framework. They will also connect fishing clusters, a Special Economic Zone, a Mega Food Park and a textile cluster to support trade and socio-economic growth.

Eight Stations Redeveloped Under Amrit Bharat Scheme

The Prime Minister inaugurated eight redeveloped railway stations under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme. These include Morappur, Bommidi, Srivilliputtur, Sholavandan, Manaparai, Pollachi Junction, Karaikkudi Junction and Thiruvarur Junction.

The modernised stations feature upgraded passenger amenities, improved accessibility, lifts and escalators, enhanced platforms and Divyangjan-friendly facilities. Local architectural elements have also been incorporated into the designs.

He also dedicated the Chennai Beach–Chennai Egmore fourth railway line to the nation. The project aims to improve operational efficiency in the Chennai suburban rail network and benefit thousands of daily commuters.

Rail Expansion and Electrification Push

Highlighting rail development in the state, he said the railway budget allocation for Tamil Nadu has increased nearly nine-fold since 2014. More than 1,300 kilometres of new railway tracks have been laid in the state, he added. Electrification has also reached 97 per cent.

Referring to the inauguration of the new Pamban Bridge last year, he highlighted its significance. The vertical lift sea bridge has emerged as a symbol of engineering excellence and a major tourist attraction, he said.

FM Transmitters to Strengthen Public Broadcasting

To expand public broadcasting infrastructure, three new Akashvani FM relay transmitters were inaugurated in Kumbakonam, Yercaud and Vellore. The new facilities are expected to enhance regional coverage and ensure uninterrupted FM broadcasting across several districts.

Infrastructure Funding and Future Corridors

Calling for a “developed Tamil Nadu for developed India,” the Prime Minister outlined his vision. He said the state will play a decisive role in achieving the goal of becoming a developed country by 2047.

He said infrastructure funding to Tamil Nadu has tripled compared to the previous decade. He added that the Union Budget 2026–27 continues a strong focus on the state. The proposed Bengaluru–Chennai and Chennai–Hyderabad bullet train corridors, he said, would transform the regional economy.

Tamil Nadu has also been included in proposed rare earth corridors to promote advanced manufacturing and technology development. He reiterated that the Centre remains fully committed to supporting the state’s continued progress.