Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched projects worth Rs 550 crore at an event in Varanasi, his parliamentary constituency on Tuesday, a day after his arrival in the city located in eastern Uttar Pradesh.

Addressing a gathering at the Banaras Hindu University (BHU) amphitheatre, where the event was held, the PM said that the developmental projects launched today will not only benefit the people of Varanasi but also those around the district.

“Looking at the dangling electric wires in Varanasi, I used to wonder when the city will be free of them. Today a large part of the city has been freed from electric wires thanks to the underground laying of cables,” he said adding that undergrounding work is moving at a rapid pace elsewhere in the city.

He said that facilities such as road connectivity, electricity, and water supply have been extended to villages around Varanasi.

The PM said that in the bid to make Kashi a smart city, care was being taken not to disturb the ancient flavour of the temple city and conserve its rich history and culture.

“This city has had an identity since ancient times. Care is being taken to preserve the same while integrating modern systems,” PM Modi said adding that Varanasi will be developed as the “gateway to East India”.

He also exhorted the people to roll out a never-before hospitality to the hundreds who would coming here for the ‘Uttar Pradesh NRI (Non-Resident Indian) Diwas’ in January 2019.

The PM said that efforts are being made to clean river Ganga from Gangotri to Ganga Sagar.

“Till now, schemes worth approximately Rs 21,000 crore have been approved towards cleaning of river Ganga,” he said.

Referring to his birthday which was celebrated by BJP workers and supporters on Monday, the PM said, “It is my good fortune that I am starting a new year of service to the country with the blessings of Lord Vishwanath and Ma Ganga. Your affection and blessings are a source of constant inspiration.”

On Monday, the PM celebrated his 68th birthday with school children in Narur village and ASHA workers in the city.

The PM told the students to learn various skills and always ask questions.

“It is important to learn various skills. This will help you forever,” said the PM, adding, “As students, it is vital to ask questions. Never feel afraid to ask questions. It is a key aspect of learning.”

Read More: Never feel afraid of asking questions, says PM Modi to students in Varanasi

Later on Monday, he visited the Kashi Vishwanath temple to propitiate Lord Shiva and seek his blessings. He also visited Manduadih Railway Station in Kashi, which has been developed as a terminal station to ease the burden on Varanasi railway station.