SRINAGAR: Union Minister of Road, Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, announced on Monday that 33 tunnels are planned in Jammu and Kashmir, with 15 already completed under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. These tunnels are expected to significantly improve the region’s connectivity, economic opportunities, and quality of life for its residents.
Gadkari said that a vital corridor between Jammu and Srinagar is under development, with 33 planned tunnels in the project. “Of these, 15 have been completed, and 18 are currently under construction, with the entire project expected to be finished by December. The total cost of the corridor is estimated at Rs 5,000 crores, marking a significant investment in the region’s infrastructure,” Gadkari said.
Addressing a gathering in Sonamarg after the inauguration of Z-Morh tunnel, Gadkari highlighted the Prime Minister’s continuous focus on enhancing critical infrastructure to propel India towards prosperity. “Water, power, transport, and communication are the backbone of any thriving nation. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, India has made great strides in these sectors,” he said.
In a major milestone for Jammu and Kashmir, Prime Minister Modi inaugurated the Sonamarg Tunnel today, a project that had been underway since 2012, he said.
“The 6.5 km tunnel, will ensure all-weather connectivity for the region, which has faced annual closures of the Srinagar-Leh road for 5-6 months due to harsh weather. The tunnel, now complete, will provide year-round access to essential supplies and services, revolutionising connectivity for local communities.”
“The Zojila Tunnel, another ambitious project in the region, is progressing well. Initially budgeted at over Rs 12,000 crores, the project is now being completed at Rs 6,800 crores, saving Rs 5,000 crores. This 14 km tunnel, along with its 18 km approach road, is set to reduce travel time between Srinagar and Leh by nearly three and a half hours, enhancing connectivity and fostering economic growth,” he said.
Gadkari expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Modi for his commitment to the development of critical infrastructure and congratulated the citizens of India for their role in witnessing such transformative projects. He termed the Sonamarg Tunnel as a gift for a brighter and more prosperous future, reinforcing the importance of all-weather connectivity for the region and the nation as a whole.
