New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Varanasi on 7th July for the inauguration and foundation stone laying ceremony of multiple development projects, with a total worth exceeding Rs.12,100 crore, as announced by the Prime Minister's Office.

During the visit, PM Modi will dedicate the Pt. Deendayal Upadhyaya Junction - Son Nagar railway line of the Dedicated Freight Corridor, an initiative aimed at enhancing the efficiency and speed of goods transportation. The construction of this railway line, which cost over Rs.6,760 crore, will facilitate faster movement of goods.

In addition, the Prime Minister will also inaugurate the electrification and doubling of three railway lines, amounting to a total cost of more than Rs.990 crore. These include the Ghazipur City - Aunrihar rail line, Aunrihar- Jaunpur rail line, and Bhatni- Aunrihar rail line. The electrification of these railway lines marks the accomplishment of 100 percent electrification of railway lines in Uttar Pradesh.

Further emphasizing the development of transportation infrastructure, PM Modi will inaugurate the four-lane widening of the Varanasi-Jaunpur section of NH-56. This project, costing over Rs.2,750 crore, will significantly improve travel between Varanasi and Lucknow, making it easier and faster.

During his visit, PM Modi will also inaugurate several other significant initiatives in Varanasi. These include the construction and renovation of 18 PWD roads, the unveiling of an International Girls Hostel building at BHU campus, and the inauguration of the Central Institute of Petrochemicals Engineering & Technology (CIPET)-Vocational Training Centre located in Karsara village.

Furthermore, the Prime Minister will lay the foundation stones for various projects that will further contribute to the development of Varanasi. These projects encompass the construction of three two-lane rail over bridges (ROB) near Chaukhandi, Kadipur, and Hardattapur railway stations, the establishment of the Vyasnagar - Pt. Deendayal Upadhyay Junction rail flyover, and the construction and renovation of 15 PWD roads. The cumulative cost of these projects is estimated to be around Rs.780 crore.

Additionally, PM Modi will lay the foundation stone for 192 rural drinking water schemes under the Jal Jeevan Mission. With a budget exceeding Rs.550 crore, these schemes will ensure access to pure drinking water for 7 lakh people residing in 192 villages.

Moreover, the Prime Minister will also initiate the redesigning and redevelopment of Manikarnika and Harishchandra Ghats. The comprehensive redevelopment plans include provisions for public conveniences, waiting areas, wood storage, waste disposal facilities, and eco-friendly cremation pyres, thereby enhancing the overall infrastructure and amenities available to visitors.

To support the welfare of the people, the Prime Minister will distribute loans under the Pradhan Mantri Street Vendor's Atmanirbhar Nidhi (PMSVANidhi) scheme and keys of houses constructed under the Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana (PMAY) Rural. Additionally, Ayushman Bharat cards will be handed out to beneficiaries in Uttar Pradesh. This distribution will mark the commencement of the Grih Pravesh (housewarming) of 5 lakh PMAY beneficiaries

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