Suhail Bhat
SRINAGAR, Jan 13: In biting sub-zero temperatures, thousands of people gathered today at the stunning tourist location of Sonamarg in Ganderbal district to witness the inauguration of the 6.5-kilometer Sonamarg tunnel by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
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As dawn broke, with temperatures plummeting to minus 12 degrees Celsius, individuals defied the cold to greet the Prime Minister, listen to his speech, and celebrate the realization of their dream to make Sonamarg an all-weather destination. For the first time, access to Sonamarg on the Srinagar-Leh National Highway will continue throughout winter.
Upon his arrival, which marked his first visit since the formation of the Omar-led National Conference government last October, Prime Minister Modi received an enthusiastic welcome.
“Today, our prayers have been answered. The inauguration of this tunnel by the Prime Minister has brought us immense joy,” expressed Bashir Amad.
Residents conveyed their hope that this development would significantly enhance the local economy by boosting tourism and creating new job opportunities. “This tunnel is a true blessing for us. Sonamarg was isolated from the rest of the world from November to April, but now it will be reachable during winter. This will promote tourism and benefit pony operators, taxi drivers, and hotel owners,” said Farooq Ahmad, a local.
“Many residents in Ganderbal, particularly in villages like Sonamarg, Kullan, Gagangir, Gund, and Kangan, rely on tourism. They faced financial struggles during winter, but this tunnel will change that situation.”
Another local pointed out the wider benefits, stating, “In times of heavy snowfall, this region was inaccessible. With this tunnel, employees, students, and underprivileged communities will greatly benefit.”
Nasir Aslam Wani, Advisor to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, highlighted the tunnel’s significance, noting, “With excellent snowfall conditions, Sonamarg can emerge as a leading ski destination. Coupled with the Zojila tunnel, it will guarantee year-round access to Ladakh, fulfilling a long-standing demand.”
The Z-Morh project, which commenced in 2020 at a cost of Rs. 2,400 crore, is part of a larger infrastructure effort that includes the 13.5-km Zojila tunnel, expected to be completed by December 2026. Together, these initiatives will ensure all-weather connectivity between Srinagar and Ladakh, areas that often endure severe winter disruptions.
