PM launches Sonamarg tunnel
Fayaz Bukhari
SRINAGAR, Jan 13: Today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially opened the highly anticipated strategic Sonamarg tunnel, making the popular tourist destination accessible year-round.
Among those present were Union Ministers Nitin Jairam Gadkari, Dr. Jitendra Singh, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, and numerous other distinguished guests.
Post-inauguration, the Prime Minister along with the other leaders and officials inspected the tunnel.
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He praised the dedication of the engineers and construction workers who tirelessly worked to make the Sonamarg tunnel a reality. The Prime Minister engaged with them and took photographs together.
Workers explained to the PM how they overcame various challenges during the construction. In his address, the PM paid tribute to the seven individuals associated with the tunnel project who lost their lives in a terrorist attack in Gagangeer last October. “Despite facing threats, the workers remained resolute in completing this significant project,” he stated.
He commended the construction workers for their commitment and dedication.
Later, while addressing a rally, Modi reiterated his pledge to enhance the beauty of J&K.
“Kashmir is the crown of India, and I envision making this crown even more beautiful. The aspiration for a developed India will be fulfilled when its crown, Kashmir, shines with the jewels of progress,” he remarked.
The PM emphasized that he will uphold the promises made to the residents of J&K. “This is Modi, a leader who honors his commitments. Good things are set to happen at the right time,” he assured. Click here to watch the video
He acknowledged the sustained support from the youth, elders, and children of the region, aiding him in building a New Jammu and Kashmir.
Modi stressed that the people of J&K are diligently working to transform their dreams into reality, contributing to regional and national progress.
The PM mentioned that the tunnel would serve as a transformative project. “This tunnel is not merely an infrastructural addition; it is a groundbreaking development that will stimulate tourism and create new opportunities for the populace,” he explained.
Modi noted that the construction of this tunnel began under his Government in 2015 and was completed within its term, adhering to their principle of inaugurating what they initiate.
He stated that the tunnel was a long-overdue demand from the people of J&K and Ladakh. “This tunnel will considerably enhance the lives of residents in Sonamarg, Kargil, and Leh. It will mitigate the challenges posed by avalanches, heavy snowfall, and landslides that frequently disrupt travel. Additionally, the tunnel will provide better access to critical healthcare facilities and ensure the availability of essential supplies, easing the challenges faced by local residents,” he elaborated.
The Sonamarg tunnel project spans approximately 12 km and has been developed at a cost exceeding Rs 2,700 crore, featuring a primary tunnel of 6.4 km, an egress tunnel, and associated access roadways.
Positioned at over 8,650 feet above sea level, it will improve all-weather connectivity between Srinagar and Sonamarg en route to Leh, avoiding landslide-prone routes and ensuring secure and continuous access to the strategically important Ladakh region.
This project will also enhance tourism, transforming Sonamarg into a year-round attraction while boosting winter tourism, adventure sports, and local economies.
Together with the upcoming Zojila tunnel, slated for completion by 2028, it will shorten the travel distance from 49 km to 43 km and increase vehicular pace from 30 km per hour to 70 km per hour, thereby facilitating seamless NH-1 connectivity between the Srinagar Valley and Ladakh.
This improved connectivity is expected to bolster defense logistics and foster economic growth and socio-cultural integration across Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.
The PM disclosed that multiple road and rail connectivity projects are on the verge of completion in J&K.
He highlighted the development of another significant connectivity venture in the vicinity and expressed excitement about the forthcoming rail connection to Kashmir.
Modi accentuated the creation of new roads, railways, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions as part of the reformed J&K.
He detailed the expansive projects initiated in J&K, including road connectivity projects worth Rs 42,000 crore, 14 tunnels currently under construction, and the integration of the world’s highest railway bridge over the Chenab river.
The PM highlighted key initiatives such as the cable bridge improving Kashmir’s rail connectivity, as well as the Zojila, Chenani Nashri, and Sonamarg tunnel projects, as well as the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla rail link initiative.
Modi also addressed the development of tourism-related projects, including the Shankaracharya Temple, Shivkhori, and Baltal-Amarnath ropeways alongside the Katra-Delhi expressway.
The PM noted that tourism is thriving in J&K, with over 2 crore tourists visiting the area last year. “Sonamarg has seen a sixfold surge in tourist traffic over the last decade,” he observed.
He emphasized that this upsurge has greatly benefited local enterprises, including hotels, homestays, eateries, clothing stores, and taxi services.
Modi reiterated that the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’ can only be attained when this crown is adorned with jewels.
He underlined the tourism sector’s vital role in India’s progression towards becoming a developed nation. “Enhanced connectivity will allow tourists to explore previously unexplored regions within J&K,” he stated.
The PM noted that the peace and development experienced in J&K over the past decade have significantly benefitted the tourism industry.
He remarked that Kashmir has regained its reputation as a paradise on earth, with Lal Chowk bustling even at night.
“The J&K of the 21st century is writing a new development narrative, moving past its challenging history. People now savor ice cream at Lal Chowk even after dark, and the area is vibrant,” he expressed.
The PM applauded local artists for transforming Polo View Market into a cultural hub, with musicians and performers frequently showcasing their talents.
Modi shared that residents of Srinagar now enjoy watching movies with their families in theaters and shopping with ease.
He emphasized that such significant improvements cannot be achieved solely by governmental efforts and credited the local populace for fortifying democracy and shaping their future.
The PM remarked on the recent international cricket league held in the region after four decades and mentioned car racing events around the picturesque Dal Lake.
He noted that Gulmarg is emerging as the winter sports capital of India, having hosted four editions of the Khelo India Winter Games, with the fifth edition commencing next month.
Over the past two years, Modi pointed out that approximately 2,500 athletes from across the nation have participated in various sports competitions in J&K.
He noted that more than 4 crore impoverished families nationwide, including those in J&K, have obtained permanent housing.
An additional 3 crore new homes for the underprivileged will be allocated in the coming years. “Millions of Indians are receiving complimentary medical treatment, with the J&K citizens benefiting as well,” he added.
The PM highlighted the establishment of new IITs, IIMs, AIIMS, medical colleges, nursing institutes, and polytechnic colleges throughout the country to enhance the educational prospects for youth.
He mentioned that several esteemed educational institutions have been set up in J&K over the past decade, greatly aiding local students.
The PM reflected on the first international marathon held in Srinagar recently, which brought immense joy to spectators.
He also reminisced about the viral video showcasing Omar’s participation in the marathon, which led to a spirited discussion in a meeting in Delhi.
Modi remarked that construction of AIIMS in Jammu and Awantipora is progressing rapidly, thereby diminishing the necessity for residents to travel elsewhere for medical attention. He noted that the IIT, IIM, and Central University campuses in Jammu are providing top-tier education.
He emphasized the importance of local artisans and craftsmen, backed by the PM Vishwakarma scheme and other initiatives from the Jammu and Kashmir government.
The PM highlighted ongoing efforts to attract new industries to the region, with investments surpassing Rs 13,000 crore, generating myriad job opportunities for the youth.
Modi commended the impressive performance of J&K Bank, with its business expanding from Rs 1.6 lakh crore to Rs 2.3 lakh crore in the last four years. He remarked that the bank’s enhanced capacity to provide loans is beneficial for youth, farmers, orchard owners, shopkeepers, and entrepreneurs in the area.
The PM noted a festive atmosphere prevailing across the nation. He remarked on the beginning of the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, where millions have gathered for the sacred bathing ritual.
He also referenced the celebration of Lohri in Punjab and other northern regions of India, alongside festivals such as Uttarayan, Makar Sankranti, and Pongal. He extended his warm wishes to everyone celebrating these festivities.
