Modi flags off Arunachal-Delhi train

Itanagar, Feb 20 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who arrived in Arunachal Pradesh capital Itanagar Friday to participate in the state's 29th foundation day has flagged off the first ever express train from Naharlagun to New Delhi.

"PM @narendramodi dedicates line to the Nation! Flags off the AC express train from Naharlagun to New Delhi in presence of MR @sureshpprabhu," the PMO said in its Twitter handle.

"AC express train - an ''anmol nazrana'' for the state of Arunachal Pradesh on the occasion of its birthday," said Modi.

He also expressed pride in the rail connectivity from Naharlagun to New Delhi and to Guwahati.

Modi said: "I am glad to come here on the occasion of your statehood day. The Governor and the CM came and told me to come. The affection of this state is such that I had to come."

"A big impediment in the Northeast's development is connectivity be it rail, roads, air. The more connectivity increases, better it is. With the rail connectivity I am sure the tourism will increase, people will see the beauty of this land," the prime minister said.

"Rail network is the backbone of development. Railways will emerge as a strength for Arunachal Pradesh's development," he said.

Modi also said that the railway network will bring prosperity to the hill state.

"Today the State is getting both 'Gati' and 'Urja'. Both are essential for progress. Indian Railways network will bring prosperity to the state of Arunachal Pradesh," he said.

Modi is accompanied by Union railway minister Suresh Prabhu, Minister of State for Railways Manoj Sinha and Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju.