Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled a slew of development projects worth over ₹4,800 crore in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, marking a major stride toward regional progress and national growth. The initiatives span across sectors including ports, airports, highways, railways, and clean energy—aimed at enhancing connectivity, boosting logistics, and improving the quality of life across the state.
Paying tribute on Kargil Vijay Diwas, PM Modi honored the sacrifices of India’s brave soldiers and emphasized that with the blessings of Lord Rameshwar and Lord Tiruchendur Murugan, a new chapter of development is unfolding in Thoothukudi. Highlighting India’s Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the United Kingdom signed during his recent foreign tour, he remarked that such global trust in India symbolizes the nation’s rising confidence and vision for a developed future.
Revisiting his earlier visit to the region, the PM recalled laying the foundation stone for the Outer Harbour Container Terminal at V.O. Chidambaranar Port and inaugurating projects worth hundreds of crores. He celebrated the operational launch of the Thoothukudi International Container Terminal in September 2024 and underlined the state’s continued elevation in national development.
He inaugurated a new terminal at Thoothukudi Airport, built at a cost of ₹450 crore, capable of handling over 20 lakh passengers annually—a massive leap from its previous capacity. He also launched two major road projects worth ₹2,500 crore, linking key economic zones with Chennai and enhancing port connectivity and ease of living.
Addressing railway infrastructure, PM Modi announced the modernization of 77 railway stations in Tamil Nadu under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme and highlighted the electrification of the Madurai–Bodinayakkanur railway line, enabling future operations of Vande Bharat trains. He also referenced iconic engineering feats like the Pamban Vertical Lift Rail Bridge, Chenab Bridge, and Atal Setu, showcasing India’s infrastructure evolution.
He inaugurated a ₹550 crore transmission project tied to the 2,000 MW Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project, a major step in India’s clean energy roadmap. He expressed satisfaction with Tamil Nadu’s rapid adoption of the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, with nearly one lakh applications and over 40,000 solar rooftops installed, promoting green energy and job creation.
Reiterating the government’s commitment to Tamil Nadu, he cited the ₹3 lakh crore devolution over the last decade and emphasized development in healthcare, fisheries, and coastal economy. Cultural bonds were also emphasized, with references to freedom fighters, Tamil poets, and initiatives like Kashi-Tamil Sangamam.
Concluding, the PM said that Thoothukudi is entering a new era, driven by upgraded infrastructure, clean energy, and industrial advancement—laying the foundation for a Developed Tamil Nadu and a Developed India.
