PM Modi Lays Foundation Stone for Rs. 1,010 Crore City Gas Distribution Project in Alipurduar, West Bengal.
Alipurduar:
In a major stride towards expanding India’s clean energy infrastructure, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone of the City Gas Distribution (CGD) project in Alipurduar, West Bengal today. Addressing a large gathering, the Prime Minister described the moment as a new milestone in West Bengal’s journey towards development and energy accessibility.
Speaking from the culturally rich town of Alipurduar, which shares borders with Bhutan and is surrounded by the scenic beauty of Jalpaiguri and Cooch Behar, the Prime Minister highlighted the region’s unique heritage and strategic significance. He remarked that as India advances towards becoming a developed nation, the active participation of Bengal is essential and inevitable.
The CGD project, worth over Rs. 1,010 crore, will provide piped natural gas (PNG) to over 2.5 lakh households and over 100 commercial and industrial establishments. In addition, around 19 compressed natural gas (CNG) stations will be set up to cater to vehicular traffic, delivering an affordable, clean, and reliable energy solution to the region. The Prime Minister noted that this development will significantly reduce dependency on LPG cylinders and ensure secure fuel supply, bringing economic and environmental benefits.
“This project is not just about pipelines; it’s about transforming lives by delivering clean fuel directly to homes and businesses,” PM Modi stated. He emphasized that the initiative would create local employment opportunities and support small and medium enterprises, while also strengthening India’s transition to a gas-based economy.
Reflecting on the energy sector’s transformation since 2014, the Prime Minister noted that the CGD network has expanded from just 66 districts to over 550 across India. He also underscored the role of the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana, which has increased LPG connections from less than 14 crore in 2014 to over 31 crore today, improving health and dignity for millions of women.
He also lauded the Urja Ganga Project for connecting the eastern states, including West Bengal, to the national gas grid and boosting energy access in rural and urban areas alike. “Energy must be affordable, clean, and universally available — and we are committed to achieving this vision,” he asserted.
Highlighting various developmental projects launched over the last decade, including the Purva Expressway, expansion of the Kolkata Metro, and modernization of Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Port, PM Modi reiterated the Centre’s commitment to Bengal’s progress.
The event was attended by Union Minister Dr. Sukanta Majumdar, West Bengal Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari, and Alipurduar MP Manoj Tigga, among other dignitaries.
