Narmada: On the eve of Diwali and the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Iron Man of India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi boosted development in Gujarat's Ekta Nagar by unveiling projects worth over Rs 284 crore. These projects aim to enhance the tourist experience, improve accessibility and support sustainability initiatives in the area.
The Prime Minister launched new tourism and attraction centres along with projects that support tourism development. These projects will elevate the global reputation of the Statue of Unity area and provide world-class facilities for visitors at Ekta Nagar.
The globally renowned Statue of Unity has become a major attraction for tourists. To further enhance this international destination, various projects were inaugurated today including the bonsai garden, sewage treatment plant, and the Sardar Sarovar Dam Experience Centre. With the opening of a 50-bed sub-district hospital, Ekta Nagar now boasts upgraded health and public facilities, a release said.
PM Modi inaugurated the sub-district hospital built at a cost of Rs 22 crore. It is equipped with essential medical facilities such as a trauma centre, CT scan, ICU, labour room, and an operation theatre.
A new ICU-on-wheels service has also been introduced, providing immediate care in critical situations. To improve traffic management and enhance the beauty of Ekta Nagar, traffic circles across the town have been beautified, and 10 smart bus stops and 10 pick-up stands have been constructed, with the first phase inaugurated during this event.
As part of a 20-day sculpture symposium organized in July 2024 with SAPTI, 24 sculptures inspired by the theme "water, nature, and unity" were created. These sculptures have now been installed across public spaces in Ekta Nagar, enhancing the town's tourism appeal.
PM Modi also inaugurated the first phase of the walkway from Bus Khadi (Bus Bay) to Viewpoint-1 and the newly constructed road from Ekta Dwar to Shreshtha Bharat Bhavan.
He inaugurated a four-megawatt solar project, worth Rs 23.26 crore, advancing Ekta Nagar's journey towards green energy. PM Modi is on a two-day visit to Gujarat. Environmental efforts were furthered with the expansion of the Bonsai Garden and Miyawaki Forest, offering nature enthusiasts a unique experience.
In response to flood damage in 2023, a protective wall near the Cactus Garden will be expanded, ensuring a safe environment and added facilities for tourists. Additionally, in Garudeshwar, land elevation work has begun for a hospitality district redevelopment project costing Rs 60 crore, aiming to prevent flood risks and support sustained development.
"With these projects, Ekta Nagar is set to become a national model, not only for tourism but also for sustainable development and civic facilities. The town will embody a blend of robust infrastructure and eco-friendly policies, creating an inviting destination for visitors," the release said. The Prime Minister also inspected the project displays showcasing Ekta Nagar's development initiatives.
