Raipur (Chhattisgarh) [India], August 16 (HBTV): Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Sunday flagged off three new trains, including the Raipur-Jabalpur Intercity Express.

Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, along with Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, virtually joined the ceremony. The initiative marks a significant step in strengthening rail connectivity between Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra.

Addressing the event, CM Sai said, "It is a matter of great pride that Chhattisgarh has been gifted another train from Raipur to Jabalpur. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Railway Minister. Since Prime Minister Modi took office, the railway budget has consistently increased, railway stations are being modernised, and connectivity has improved."

The Chief Minister further noted that Bastar has also been gifted a new train service. "Earlier, there was only one train from Chhattisgarh to Jabalpur. Today, we have received the second, for which I thank the Prime Minister and Railway Minister," he added.

In a post on X, CM Sai elaborated that the new Intercity train would serve as a strong link between the cultural and educational hubs of Raipur and Jabalpur, enhancing connectivity with Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh. The event was attended by Assembly Speaker Dr. Raman Singh, MP Brijmohan Agrawal, MLA Motilal Sahu, Purandar Mishra, and other dignitaries.

Madhya Pradesh CM Mohan Yadav also expressed gratitude on X, writing, "Today, through video conferencing from Ujjain, I flagged off the Jabalpur-Raipur Express and Rewa-Pune Hadapsar Express along with Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. On behalf of the people of Madhya Pradesh, I thank Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Railway Minister for these gifts."

The newly launched trains are expected to ease travel and boost economic and cultural ties across the three states.

(ANI)