PM Modi Inaugurates Strategic Sonamarg Tunnel, Reaffirms Promises to Jammu & Kashmir

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 6.4-km-long Z-Morh tunnel in Sonamarg, Jammu & Kashmir, on Monday. This strategic project ensures year-round connectivity between the tourist hub of Sonamarg and Srinagar, offering immense benefits for defense accessibility, tourism, and the local economy.

Commitment to Promises

Speaking at a public rally after the inauguration, Modi reaffirmed his commitment to fulfilling promises made to the people of Jammu & Kashmir.

In response to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s reminder about restoring statehood to the Union Territory, Modi said, “You have to believe that this is Modi and he keeps his promises… Right things will happen at the right time.”

Strategic Importance of the Tunnel

The Z-Morh tunnel, named after the Z-shaped mountain pass in Ganderbal district, is located 10 km from Sonamarg.

Built at an altitude of 8,650 feet, this state-of-the-art infrastructure project will ease transportation challenges caused by avalanches and harsh weather.

It features an intelligent traffic management system, a parallel escape tunnel, and a ventilation system.

“This tunnel will make the lives of people in Sonamarg, Kargil, and Leh easier. Earlier, roads would close due to avalanches, cutting access to essentials and hospitals,” Modi said.

Strengthening Infrastructure in J&K

The Z-Morh tunnel is a part of larger efforts to enhance Jammu & Kashmir’s infrastructure.

The 14.15-km Zoji La Tunnel, located nearby, will transform the Srinagar-Sonamarg-Leh highway into an all-weather road. These projects signify the government’s focus on connectivity and development.

Highlighting these efforts, Modi said, “Jammu & Kashmir is the crown of the country, and I want it to be beautiful and prosperous. There is an atmosphere of peace, and we see its positive impact on tourism. Kashmir is writing a new saga of development today.”

Tribute to Workers and Heroes

Modi expressed gratitude to the workers who overcame extreme conditions to complete the tunnel.

He also paid tribute to the seven workers who lost their lives during its construction, stating, “I want to thank all the brothers who worked in the most difficult circumstances, risking their lives for the progress of the country.”

Boosting Economy and Tourism

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari described the Z-Morh tunnel as a “game-changer” for the local economy. He highlighted that the Srinagar-Leh highway, which previously closed for months due to snow, will now remain operational year-round.

“Today is a historic day. The completion of this tunnel will promote tourism, provide employment, and support the region’s economic growth,” Gadkari said.

He also mentioned ongoing projects like the ₹6,800-crore Zoji La Tunnel and emphasized the government’s mission to develop J&K’s infrastructure.

Ongoing Development in Jammu & Kashmir

During his speech, Modi highlighted other infrastructure projects in the region, including the Chenab Bridge, the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla rail link, and the Katra-Delhi expressway.

“The world is in awe of the Chenab Bridge’s engineering marvel. With ₹42,000 crore worth of road connectivity projects, J&K is set to become one of the most connected places in India,” he said.

A Transformative Era

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressed gratitude to Modi for fostering development in Jammu & Kashmir. “With the opening of the Z-Morh Tunnel, a new chapter begins for J&K. This project will boost winter tourism and create new opportunities for livelihood and trade,” Sinha said.

Modi’s Bond with Kashmir

Reflecting on his earlier visits to J&K as a BJP worker, Modi shared fond memories of traveling through the region and experiencing the hospitality of its people.

“Despite harsh conditions, the warmth of the people here made everything bearable,” he said.

The Z-Morh tunnel is more than just an infrastructure project; it symbolizes a new era of connectivity and growth in Jammu & Kashmir.

With several other transformative projects in the pipeline, the region is poised for significant economic and social development.

This tunnel is a testament to the government’s commitment to creating opportunities, enhancing tourism, and improving the quality of life for the people of J&K.