Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated 23 development projects valued at ₹307.83 crore and laid the foundation for eight additional projects worth ₹118.88 crore in Ekta Nagar, Gujarat, on Saturday. This initiative represents a substantial investment of ₹426.71 crore aimed at bolstering tourism and civic infrastructure surrounding the Statue of Unity. The projects are designed to enhance tourist attractions, improve connectivity, and upgrade public amenities, transforming Ekta Nagar into a prominent tourism hub.

The newly announced projects include the establishment of a hotel, a cruise facility, a rainforest attraction, and an eco-trail. These developments are intended to diversify the offerings available to visitors, moving beyond the Statue of Unity itself. The prime minister also paid floral tributes to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at the Statue of Unity to commemorate his birth anniversary, which is celebrated as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas.

Among the key attractions inaugurated is a hotel developed by the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) at a cost of ₹50 crore. This facility is expected to significantly enhance accommodation options for tourists visiting the area. Additionally, the introduction of the Ekta Cruise, built at a cost of ₹16 crore, aims to provide a new leisure experience for visitors.

New Attractions and Facilities to Enhance Visitor Experience

Other notable attractions include a rainforest facility developed for ₹14.30 crore and an eco-trail costing ₹3.67 crore. These additions are designed to enrich the visitor experience and provide a variety of activities beyond the primary landmark. The prime minister also inaugurated the ‘Ekta Prakash Parv’ heritage display, along with enhancements to the exterior lighting within the Statue of Unity campus and an upgraded Unity Glow Garden, contributing to the area’s recreational offerings during the evening.

A significant portion of the investment has been allocated to enhance transport and visitor convenience. This includes the installation of travelators worth ₹28.22 crore and a 24-metre colony road developed at a cost of ₹23 crore to alleviate traffic congestion. Furthermore, two air-conditioned electric buses, each measuring nine metres, have been introduced, along with an extended walkway connecting the Ekta Nagar railway station to the Visitor Centre.

Additional facilities include a terminal building and a jetty near Mokhadi village, water stations at various locations, and staff quarters valued at ₹14.25 crore. These developments are aimed at improving the overall experience for visitors and facilitating better access to the attractions.

Focus on Sustainable Infrastructure and Waste Management

The inauguration also included a sewage treatment plant worth ₹45.53 crore and a water treatment facility costing ₹21.40 crore. The prime minister unveiled a parade track and related infrastructure developed at a cost of ₹23.81 crore. The next phase of development will feature a Smart Zero Waste integrated waste management facility, estimated at ₹36.58 crore, for which the foundation stone was laid.

Among the eight upcoming projects are the Gora-Bhanadra Road, projected to cost ₹59.32 crore, and the Smart Zero Waste integrated waste management facility. Other initiatives include the development of the Khalwani Bridge at ₹7.72 crore, a cactus and butterfly garden costing ₹5.79 crore, and Khalwani Eco-Tourism development worth ₹5.15 crore. Additional projects encompass the widening of Vaghadia Road and the construction of a disaster control room for the Sardar Sarovar Dam.

These projects are part of the Gujarat government’s broader strategy to develop Ekta Nagar and the Statue of Unity region into a significant tourism destination through new attractions, improved transport links, and upgraded civic infrastructure.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store – https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share