Jamshedpur: In an unprecedented move, Prime Minister Narendra Modi became the first Indian PM to undertake a road journey from Jharkhand’s capital, Ranchi, to the Steel City, Jamshedpur, defying inclement weather that grounded his chopper.
The Prime Minister landed at Ranchi’s Birsa Munda Airport around 9 AM, from where he was initially scheduled to fly by helicopter to Jamshedpur, on Sunday. However, heavy rainfall and poor visibility disrupted his plans, forcing the helicopter to remain grounded.
Modi was expected to flag off six Vande Bharat Express trains from Tatanagar Railway Station, but due to the adverse weather, the trains were instead flagged off via video conference.
Just as the news broke that the Prime Minister’s programs in Jamshedpur had been cancelled, Modi received word that lakhs of people were still waiting for him at Gopal Maidan, eagerly anticipating his appearance at the BJP’s Parivartan Rally. Determined not to disappoint, PM Modi took the bold decision to travel to Jamshedpur by road.
“When I learnt that the weather conditions were unfavourable, I decided to make my way to Jamshedpur by road,” Modi declared to a roaring crowd at Gopal Maidan.
“No matter how heavy the rain is, no matter how challenging the obstacles are. Nothing could stop me from meeting you. I had promised to meet you all face to face, and here I am,” added Modi.
Talking to The Avenue Mail inspector general of police (IG) and Jharkhand Police spokesperson AV Homkar said, “Seeing the weather, Jharkhand Police was prepared for last moment changes. We had taken care of all minute details for honourable Prime Minister’s journey from Ranchi to Jamshedpur and back.”
The IG denied giving any further details about the arrangements made, “I cannot give security details of VVIP movement.”
The Prime Minister embarked on the 130-kilometer journey at around 11:30 AM, navigating through stunning, scenic landscapes along National Highway 33. Despite the weather, Modi and his convoy reached Jamshedpur at approximately 1 PM.
But this wasn’t just any road — NH33 is notorious, believed by many to be one of India’s most haunted highways. Tales of paranormal sightings and eerie experiences have made it infamous, with travelers claiming to have encountered supernatural phenomena on this stretch of road.
Adding to its mystique, NH33 was once a key part of India’s Red Corridor, dominated by CPI-Maoist insurgents. The rebels carried out several deadly attacks along this highway, instilling fear and leaving a trail of bloodshed. Among the most notorious incidents was the looting of Rs 5.5 crore from an ICICI Bank cash van by Maoist cadres, and the brutal murder of Special Branch Sub-Inspector Francis Induwar, whose mutilated body was left on the NH33 as a chilling message.
Despite the road’s dark history, Modi’s journey through it stands as a powerful symbol of resilience and determination. He not only braved the physical elements but also the psychological weight of traveling through a region steeped in both supernatural lore and insurgent violence.
Beautifully written. This indeed was an amazing achievement for a region often neglected whilst being huge contributor to Indian economy.
Honour of Audience & courage of Honarable PM must prevail