Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma on Sunday (January 21) expressed confidence that the newly inaugurated railway overbridge, named ‘Ram Setu,’ in Balotra would provide a substantial boost to the state’s progress.
In a significant stride towards enhancing infrastructure and fostering development, Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari inaugurated the bridge, built with two lanes over a 2 km stretch at a cost of Rs 102 crore, on National Highway-112 in the Jodhpur-Barmer railway section.
Relief from traffic congestion
The chief minister, participating in the inauguration through video conferencing from his official residence, highlighted the immediate benefits the railway overbridge would bring to Balotra.
Sharma emphasised that the construction of ‘Ram Setu’ would alleviate traffic congestion at level crossings in Balotra, enhancing safety by preventing accidents caused by heavy vehicles passing through the city.
The overbridge would also simplify commuting for the common man, particularly in reaching the railway station, ultimately saving valuable time. The improved transportation infrastructure is expected to facilitate smoother travel for the residents of Balotra and the surrounding areas.
The chief minister also underscored the positive impact on religious tourism, noting that the overbridge’s construction would ease the movement of devotees visiting religious places like Jasol Dham, Nakoda, and Brahmadham Yatra.
Infrastructure development
The completion of two underpasses as part of the project would further contribute to easing city traffic. He highlighted that the strengthened road network and enhanced connectivity would not only benefit the local residents but also bolster the region’s industrial sector, leading to increased employment opportunities.
Sharma assured that the state government would expedite various approvals in a time-bound manner to fortify the road network.
Acknowledging Union Minister Nitin Gadkari’s pivotal role, CM Sharma praised the leader’s progressive thinking and innovative approach, which, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, has provided Rajasthan with opportunities for the development of ring roads, bridges, road overbridges (ROBs), and major expressways, including the Mumbai-Delhi Expressway and Jamnagar-Amritsar Expressway.