SONAMARG, Jan 13: On Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated his commitment to fulfilling the promises made to the people of Jammu and Kashmir, implicitly addressing Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s strong demand for the restoration of statehood.
“This is Modi who stands by his commitments. There is a time for everything, and the right things will occur at the right time,” Modi stated at a significant public gathering where he shared the platform with Abdullah after inaugurating a pivotal 6.4-km tunnel connecting Srinagar with Sonamarg.
Describing Kashmir as India’s crown, the Prime Minister noted that the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’ will only materialize when this crown is adorned with jewels.
Earlier in the event, Abdullah urged for the restoration of statehood for Jammu and Kashmir, as promised by Modi prior to the assembly elections in September of the previous year, saying, “My heart believes that you will fulfill this promise soon.”
He added, “You also committed to conducting (assembly) elections within four months and have honored your word.”
While not directly addressing the statehood issue, Modi reassured attendees that all promises would be honored and that the right developments would occur at the appropriate times.
The Prime Minister expressed his aspiration for Jammu and Kashmir to flourish. “There is a climate of peace in Jammu and Kashmir, which is reflected in the tourism sector. Kashmir is today crafting a new narrative of development,” he remarked.
“The Jammu and Kashmir of the 21st century is penning a new chapter of progress,” he added, stating that the region is reclaiming its identity as “Paradise on Earth,” moving on from its troubled past.
Modi also shared that the Kashmir Valley would soon be accessible by train, generating excitement among the residents.
He paid tribute to the victims of a terror attack that occurred near the tunnel on October 20 last year, which claimed seven lives.
Following the inauguration, the Prime Minister entered the tunnel and engaged with project officials while also conversing with construction workers who persevered through harsh conditions to complete the project.
He thanked the laborers for their dedication and willingness to endure challenges for the betterment of Jammu and Kashmir and India.
“Despite the hurdles, our determination remained steadfast,” the Prime Minister remarked, praising the perseverance and commitment of the workers.
Admiring the stunning snow-capped mountains and pleasant weather, Modi noted that his desire to visit Jammu and Kashmir grew after witnessing recent photographs shared by the Chief Minister on social media.
He reminisced about his earlier visits to the region while working with the BJP, recalling how he spent considerable time in places like Sonamarg, Gulmarg, Ganderbal, and Baramulla, often walking for hours and covering great distances.
Despite heavy snowfall, the warmth of the people’s hospitality in Jammu and Kashmir rendered the cold inconsequential, as the audience applauded in agreement.
Modi also addressed the recent laying of the foundation stone for the Jammu Rail Division, a long-standing aspiration of the people.
He emphasized that the tunnel would significantly improve the lives of residents in Sonamarg, Kargil, and Leh.
The Prime Minister noted that the tunnel would alleviate difficulties faced during avalanches, heavy snowfall, and landslides, which often lead to road closures.
He pointed out that the actual construction of the Sonamarg Tunnel commenced in 2015 after his government took office and expressed satisfaction that the completion occurred under their administration.
“I firmly believe in this mantra: we only inaugurate projects that we announce,” he expressed, asserting that the era of announcing projects without follow-up is over.
Previously, Abdullah welcomed Modi, recalling his address during International Yoga Day last year, where he mentioned three essential points related to the ‘distance between hearts’ and the ‘distance between Jammu and Kashmir and Delhi,’ indicating efforts to bridge these gaps.
He stated that it was a privilege to have the Prime Minister inaugurating two significant projects in Jammu and Kashmir within a fortnight, noting that last week, Modi virtually inaugurated the Jammu railway division.
“These projects will not only diminish the distances between hearts but also reduce the physical distance from Delhi,” Abdullah conveyed, thanking the PM for keeping his commitments.
The Chief Minister mentioned that people frequently approach him, inquiring about the restoration of statehood for Jammu and Kashmir.
“My heart believes that very soon, Prime Minister, you will fulfill your third promise to the people of Jammu and Kashmir, and the region will once again attain statehood,” he stated.
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari and Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha were also present for the inauguration.
This marks Modi’s first visit to Jammu and Kashmir following the assembly elections held in September-October of last year.
The Sonamarg Tunnel project, approximately 12 km in length, has been constructed at a cost exceeding Rs 2,700 crore. It includes the main Sonamarg tunnel of 6.4 km, an escape tunnel, and approach roads.
Set at an altitude of over 8,650 feet, this tunnel will enhance all-weather connectivity between Srinagar and Sonamarg en route to Leh, bypassing routes susceptible to landslides and avalanches, thereby ensuring safer and uninterrupted access to the strategically vital Ladakh region.
Additionally, it will boost tourism, turning Sonamarg into a year-round destination, enhancing winter tourism, adventure sports, and local livelihoods.
Together with the Zojila Tunnel, which is expected to be completed by 2028, it will shorten the journey from 49 km to 43 km and increase vehicle speed from 30 km per hour to 70 km per hour, ensuring seamless NH-1 connectivity between the Srinagar Valley and Ladakh.
This expanded connectivity is set to enhance defense logistics, stimulate economic growth, and foster socio-cultural integration across Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. (Agencies)
