In a significant development, the Chambal-Gwalior region, which was once known for its association with dreaded dacoits like Man Singh, is set to undergo a transformation with the construction of the state-of-the-art Atal Expressway. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to lay the foundation stone for this expressway, previously named the Chambal-Gwalior Expressway, which has now been renamed in honor of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. This 309-km expressway holds not only infrastructural importance but also political significance as it will serve as a crucial link between the states of Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh. Moreover, it will play a central role in connecting key projects like the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, Delhi-Kolkata corridor, and East-West corridor.
Significance of Chambal Expressway
The Atal Expressway’s political significance goes beyond its infrastructure. The Chambal-Gwalior region, known for sending 36 lawmakers to the Madhya Pradesh Assembly, was historically a stronghold of the Congress party. However, recent years have seen a shift in political dynamics. In 2018, the Congress surprised many by winning 26 out of 36 seats in the Assembly polls. Subsequently, due to internal conflicts and upheavals, the BJP managed to regain power in 2020, led by Shivraj Singh Chouhan.
Chambal-Gwalior Region: Atal Expressway’s Infrastructural and Political Significance
Presently, both the ruling BJP and the opposition Congress are in a closely contested position. The Congress has seen a decline in its seat count to 17, while the BJP has improved its standing with 16 seats in the Chambal-Gwalior region. This region is considered a bastion for the BJP and is home to some of its prominent leaders.
Adding to the political dynamics is the presence of Jyotiraditya Scindia, who has joined the BJP. His influence and popularity in the region might sway local leaders and the vote bank to support him regardless of party lines. This could give the BJP an advantage, especially since the Congress lacks a comparable leader. Apart from Scindia, the BJP boasts other influential figures from the region, including state home minister Narottam Mishra and Union Minister Narendra Singh Tomar.
In addition to the Atal Expressway, Madhya Pradesh will soon witness the inauguration of a stretch of the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway by PM Modi. These infrastructure developments are strategic moves by the Narendra Modi government, aimed at showcasing its commitment to progress and development. This “double engine sarkar” approach, emphasizing both state and central governance, is likely to be a central message to the electorate as elections approach.
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