Prime Minister Modi on Wednesday morning flagged off India’s first indigenous green hydrogen fuel cell inland waterway vessel in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu. “Today, the country is working on the aim of ‘Viksit Bharat’ and Viksit Tamil Nadu has an important role to play in this…Today, the inauguration of the Outer Harbor Container Terminal at VO Chidambaranar Port has been done. Investment worth Rs 7,000 crores will be done for this. Several projects worth Rs 900 crores have also been inaugurated today,” PM Modi said.
The PM further added, “Along with the maritime sector, many development projects related to rail and road have also started here today. The work of electrification and doubling of the rail line will further improve the connectivity between South Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Today, I have also inaugurated four big projects worth Rs 5,000 crores, which will improve the road connectivity of the state, reduce travel time, and also boost tourism and Industry.”
The state will see an infra push with 36 infrastructure projects valued at over Rs 17,000 crore. The projects emcompass foundation stone laying, national projects, and inaugurations, collectively aimed at enhancing connectivity and maritime capabilities in the state.
Transshipment Hub and Green Hydrogen Hub
The event witnessed the inauguration of VOC Port as India’s pioneering Green Hydrogen Hub and the unveiling of India’s first hydrogen fuel vessel, showcasing strides towards sustainability and self-reliance in the maritime sector.
PM Modi will lay the foundation stone for the Outer Harbour Container Terminal project, marking a significant step towards fulfilling the vision of making VO Chidambaranar Port the Transshipment Hub of the East Coast of India.
Port Modernization and Sagarmala Program
The inauguration of port modernization projects under the Sagarmala Program reflects efforts to enhance port efficiency and infrastructure. Tamil Nadu has seen substantial investments in Sagarmala projects, fostering socio-economic development.
Maritime Skill Development and Innovation
The emphasis on skill development through Maritime Training Institutes and the innovative initiatives of the National Technology Centre for Ports, Waterways, and Coasts (NTCPWC) underscore efforts to nurture maritime talent and deploy cutting-edge technologies.
Sonowal on Tuesday highlighted the significance of the Eastern Maritime Corridor, which promises reduced travel time and enhanced efficiency in cargo transportation between India and Far East Russia.
Cruise Tourism in Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu’s progress in cruise tourism, supported by proactive government initiatives, is a significant milestone. The launch of Cordelia Cruises to Sri Lanka and upcoming domestic cruises herald a new era for the industry. PM Modi will also dedicate railway and road projects, along with an initiative by ISRO, indicative of the comprehensive developmental agenda for Tamil Nadu.
(With ANI Inputs)