Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, during his visit to Bilaspur, unveiled a statue of Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee at the newly constructed ‘Atal Parisar’ near the Arpa River View, paying tribute to the former Prime Minister.
On the occasion, the Chief Minister inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for multiple development projects worth over ₹26.93 crore, aimed at strengthening urban infrastructure and civic amenities in the city.
Addressing the gathering, Sai said that Atal Bihari Vajpayee was not merely a politician but a visionary of modern India, a powerful orator, a sensitive poet, and the architect behind the creation of Chhattisgarh. He recalled that the state was formed on November 1, 2000, under Vajpayee’s leadership, giving the region a distinct identity and new direction for development.
He stated that the installation of Vajpayee’s statue is a meaningful initiative to preserve his legacy, ideas, and commitment to nation-building. The Atal Parisar, he said, will serve as a source of inspiration for future generations and promote a stronger sense of civic responsibility.
Sai further announced that the state government has decided to establish ‘Atal Parisars’ across all urban local bodies to take Vajpayee’s ideals to the grassroots. He added that such complexes have already been inaugurated in 115 urban bodies across the state on December 25, and the initiative will continue.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to the holistic development of Bilaspur, the Chief Minister said the projects launched today would significantly enhance the city’s infrastructure and improve public services, paving the way for a more modern and accessible urban environment.
Referring to global developments, Sai mentioned the ongoing tensions in West Asia but assured that India remains stable under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He emphasized that due to strong foreign policy and coordination, supply systems remain unaffected, and citizens need not worry. He urged people to avoid rumors and act responsibly.
During the event, projects worth approximately ₹12.43 crore were inaugurated, including the construction of Atal Parisar, the first-floor expansion of Marathi Kanya Shala building, a commercial complex in Imlipara, and a Reserved Police Centre.
Additionally, foundation stones were laid for new projects worth around ₹14.50 crore. These include road, drainage, and pitching works in the Arpa area, road widening and renovation in Jarhabhatha, and the construction of a statue and platform of Bhagwan Birsa Munda in Usalapur, aimed at strengthening both infrastructure and cultural identity.
Union Minister of State Tokhan Sahu described the Atal Parisar as a matter of pride for the state and credited it to the visionary leadership of the Chief Minister. He noted that Vajpayee’s contributions are beyond words and continue to guide the nation.
The event was also attended by several dignitaries, including Tourism and Culture Minister Rajesh Agrawal, Women and Child Development Minister Lakshmi Rajwade, Health Minister Shyam Bihari Jaiswal, and legislators Amar Agrawal, Dharamlal Kaushik, Dharamjeet Singh, and Sushant Shukla, among others.
