New Delhi, Jan 11: On Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed that he has been “eagerly awaiting” his trip to Sonmarg to inaugurate the Z-morh tunnel next week.
His comments came in response to a post by Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who visited the site to assess preparations ahead of the PM’s visit.
Modi praised CM Abdullah for highlighting the project’s benefits for both tourism and the local economy.
“Visited Sonmarg today to review the preparations for PM @narendramodi ji’s visit on Monday. The inauguration of the Z-morh tunnel will allow Sonmarg to thrive as a year-round tourist destination. Sonmarg will soon develop into a prominent ski resort. Local residents will no longer have to migrate during winter, and travel time from Srinagar to Kargil/Leh will be significantly reduced,” the J-K CM shared on X.
In response to his tweet, PM Modi remarked, “I am looking forward to my visit to Sonmarg, Jammu and Kashmir for the tunnel inauguration. You have correctly pointed out the advantages for tourism and the local economy. Also, loved the aerial pictures and videos!”
I am eagerly awaiting my visit to Sonmarg, Jammu and Kashmir for the tunnel inauguration. You rightly highlight the benefits for tourism and the local economy.
Also, appreciated the aerial pictures and videos! https://t.co/JCBT8Ei175
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 11, 2025
Two major projects in Jammu and Kashmir are set for inauguration in early 2025.
On Monday, January 13, PM Modi will formally launch the crucial Z Morh Tunnel. A rail connectivity project, which will link Kashmir to the rest of India for the first time, is also scheduled for later this month.
Once inaugurated on January 13, the Z-Morh tunnel will ensure year-round access between Kashmir and Sonamarg. The 6.5-kilometer tunnel, situated on the Srinagar-Leh highway in the Ganderbal district’s Gagangir sector, boasts a construction cost of Rs 24 billion.
The Z-morh tunnel construction will alleviate the challenges posed by heavy snowfall and harsh winters that render the road to Sonamarg impassable. With Sonamarg previously closed during severe snow events, this tunnel is essential for the region’s tourism sector.
The tunnel will enhance connectivity from Srinagar to Sonamarg and, ultimately, to Ladakh. Additionally, it holds strategic importance for military operations. Located at an altitude of over 8,500 feet, this road segment is particularly vulnerable to winter conditions.
Construction of the tunnel began in 2012 by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) and was initially awarded to Tunnelways Limited. However, the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) later took over the project and reissued the tender. (Agencies)
