Prime Minister Narendra Modi honored Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his 147th birth anniversary, a day celebrated as National Unity Day, at the iconic Statue of Unity in Kevadia, Gujarat. The Prime Minister’s visit coincided with a series of inaugurations for significant development projects in the region, a testament to the government’s commitment to enhancing tourism, accessibility, and sustainability in Kevadia.
On Thursday morning, Prime Minister Modi took to social media to express his profound respect for Sardar Patel, the ‘Iron Man of India,’ highlighting his dedication to safeguarding the nation’s unity and sovereignty. “His personality and work will continue to inspire every generation of the country,” PM Modi wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
The Prime Minister’s visit to Kevadia included a Unity Day Parade at the Parade Ground, a grand display of national pride and a tribute to Sardar Patel’s unwavering commitment to a unified India.
As part of his two-day visit to Gujarat, PM Modi inaugurated development projects valued at over ₹ 284 crore. These projects are designed to enhance the tourist experience at the Statue of Unity, a globally recognized landmark that attracts visitors from across the globe. Key initiatives include new tourism and attraction centers in Ekta Nagar, the city surrounding the Statue of Unity, aimed at bolstering its global profile and offering world-class amenities to visitors.
The projects also encompass a range of infrastructure improvements, including a bonsai garden, a sewage treatment plant, and the Sardar Sarovar Dam Experience Centre. These additions will enhance the visitor experience and further solidify the Statue of Unity’s position as a prominent tourist destination.
Recognizing the importance of accessible healthcare, Prime Minister Modi inaugurated a 50-bed sub-district hospital in Ekta Nagar. Built at a cost of ₹ 22 crore, the hospital is equipped with essential medical facilities such as a trauma center, CT scan, ICU, labor room, and operation theatre. The hospital is poised to improve healthcare services and accessibility for the local community.
To further enhance healthcare delivery, the Prime Minister also launched a new ICU-on-wheels service, ensuring immediate emergency care for residents.
The Prime Minister also unveiled the first phase of a comprehensive beautification and traffic management plan for Ekta Nagar. This phase includes the upgrade of several traffic circles, the construction of 10 smart bus stops, and 10 pick-up stands, aiming to improve traffic flow and enhance the aesthetics of the city.
In a further step towards promoting sustainable development, PM Modi inaugurated a four-megawatt solar project in Ekta Nagar. The ₹ 23.26 crore project marks a significant stride towards bolstering the region’s green energy initiatives.
PM Modi also launched the first phase of the walkway from Bus Khadi (Bus Bay) to Viewpoint-1, offering visitors a scenic and convenient route to admire the grandeur of the Statue of Unity. Additionally, he inaugurated a new road connecting Ekta Dwar to Shreshtha Bharat Bhavan, further enhancing connectivity within the region.
The Prime Minister’s two-day visit to Gujarat underscores the government’s commitment to the development of the state, particularly in regions like Kevadia, known for its historical significance and burgeoning tourism industry. The inauguration of various development projects reflects the government’s efforts to bolster infrastructure, enhance tourism, and improve the quality of life for residents.
