Jalandhar in Punjab saw extensive preparations with party flags, banners and security measures as the Prime Minister arrived to launch railway initiatives, start a new train service and speak at a large public meeting. During the address, he criticised the state Aam Aadmi Party administration.
The visit occurred as Punjab approaches the next election period, highlighting its political importance amid significant public turnout and detailed security planning.
Journalists departed Chandigarh early in the morning by road for the roughly 147-kilometre journey to allow extra time for expected route changes and crowds. They reached the area by mid-morning, more than a kilometre from the main site at Jalandhar Cantt Railway station, where the approach roads had been decorated.
The route featured numerous flags, posters and displays from the Bharatiya Janata Party along with images of national figures. Supporters gathered along the way, many arriving for the event. The station surroundings appeared clean with new roads and upgraded facilities. The station redevelopment cost 125 crore rupees.
Media access to the station was restricted. The Prime Minister’s helicopter arrived around 3:45 pm, after which he proceeded to the platform. He inaugurated the upgraded station, flagged off the Amritsar-Varanasi Sant Ravidas Express and used a video link to open 75 additional stations nationwide.
A public rally followed. The Prime Minister, wearing a dark green turban, spoke in Punjabi to an enthusiastic audience and discussed government initiatives while criticising the state Aam Aadmi Party. The event combined project announcements with political points.
After the address, traffic congestion occurred on several roads due to departing crowds and security measures. The visit indicated the level of political activity expected in Punjab ahead of elections.
