In a significant push for infrastructure and economic development in Bihar, Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi on Monday launched and laid the foundation stones for a series of major projects worth approximately Rs 36,000 crore in Purnea district. The initiatives span across aviation, power, railways, irrigation, and housing, aiming to transform connectivity and improve quality of life in the state.
Also Read: PM Modi Inaugurates New Terminal at Purnea Airport to Boost Regional Air Connectivity in Bihar
Purnea Airport Terminal Inaugurated, First Flight Flagged Off
PM Modi inaugurated the newly developed terminal at Purnea Airport, significantly enhancing the region’s passenger handling capacity and air connectivity. He also flagged off the first commercial flight on the Purnea-Kolkata route, marking a key milestone in the regional aviation development under UDAN scheme.
The event was attended by Chief Minister Mr. Nitish Kumar, Deputy CM Mr. Samrat Choudhary, along with several Union Ministers, state officials, MPs, and MLAs.
Bihar’s Largest Private Investment: Rs 25,000 Crore Thermal Power Plant
One of the major announcements included laying the foundation stone of a 3×800 MW thermal power project in Pirpainti, Bhagalpur, at a cost of Rs 25,000 crore. Designed with ultra-super critical and low-emission technology, the project is Bihar’s largest private sector investment. It will play a pivotal role in strengthening the state’s energy security, ensuring dedicated power supply across sectors.
Irrigation and Flood Control: Rs 2,680 Crore Kosi-Mechi River Link Project
The Kosi-Mechi Intra-State River Link Project, with a budget of Rs 2,680 crore, also saw its foundation stone laid. Phase 1 of the project will upgrade and desilt canals, reconstruct damaged infrastructure, and increase the discharge capacity from 15,000 to 20,000 cusecs.
This will benefit multiple northeastern districts of Bihar by improving flood management, irrigation systems, and overall agricultural resilience.
Major Railway Expansion: New Lines, Trains, and Improved Connectivity
The Prime Minister inaugurated and laid foundation stones for multiple railway projects aimed at boosting intra-state connectivity:
- Rs 2,170 crore Bikramshila–Katareah rail line, providing direct Ganga river connectivity
- Rs 4,410 crore Araria–Galgalia rail line, improving access between Araria and Kishanganj districts
- Vande Bharat Express flagged off between Jogbani and Danapur, benefitting over 10 districts
- Amrit Bharat Express trains launched between Saharsa–Chheharta (Amritsar) and Jogbani–Erode, enhancing long-distance connectivity
These projects are expected to catalyze economic, cultural, and social integration in Bihar and beyond.
Empowering Rural and Urban Households
In a boost to housing and social welfare, 35,000 rural beneficiaries under Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana–Gramin and 5,920 urban beneficiaries under PMAY–Urban received their Griha Pravesh (housewarming) keys. PM Modi also handed over keys to selected beneficiaries during the event.
Financial Empowerment through Livelihood Missions
Further promoting grassroots economic empowerment, the Prime Minister distributed Rs 500 crore in Community Investment Funds to Cluster-Level Federations (CLFs) under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission. Cheques were handed over to select CLF heads, symbolizing support for self-help groups and rural women entrepreneurs.
A Transformative Leap for Bihar
The sweeping array of announcements signals the government’s long-term vision for Bihar’s holistic development. From energy security and transport upgrades to housing, irrigation, and grassroots financing, the state is set to witness accelerated growth and socio-economic transformation.
