SRINAGAR: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday inaugurated the long-awaited Sonamarg Tunnel, a landmark infrastructure project aimed at improving connectivity between Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.
PM said he would keep the promises he made to the people of Jammu and Kashmir and right things would happen at the right time.
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Abdullah were also present at the inauguration.
Prime Minister said that Jammu and Kashmir is becoming a hub of tunnels, bridges and ropeways, adding that the world’s highest tunnel, railroad bridge and rail lines are being built here. “The world is in awe after witnessing the marvellous engineering of the Chenab Bridge.”
In his speech, Modi thanked those who worked tirelessly on the project despite harsh conditions and paid tribute to seven lives lost during the construction. “This project represents the resilience and dedication of everyone involved in its completion,” he said.
Modi further emphasised the importance of infrastructure development in Jammu and Kashmir as a way to combat unemployment and alleviate poverty. “The Sonamarg Tunnel is not just an engineering feat; it is a gateway to prosperity for the people of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh,” he added.
“Today, I come as your ‘sevak’. Recently, I laid the foundation for your railway division in Jammu, fulfilling a long-standing demand. Today, I’m proud to hand over the Sonamarg Tunnel, another promise kept. This is Modi: ‘When I make a promise, I keep it.’ The tunnel will ease life for the people of Kargil, Leh, and reduce hardships for Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.”
Referring to aerial shots of Sonamarg shared by CM Omar Abdullah on his Twitter, Modi said, “Two days ago, our CM shared pictures that made me eager to visit the place. As a BJP worker also, I used to come to Kashmir and I frequently visited places like Sonamarg, Gulmarg, Baramulla, and Ganderbal, walking for hours despite heavy snowfall. The warmth of the people of Jammu and Kashmir made us forget the cold.”
I am eagerly awaiting my visit to Sonmarg, Jammu and Kashmir for the tunnel inauguration. You rightly point out the benefits for tourism and the local economy.
Also, loved the aerial pictures and videos! https://t.co/JCBT8Ei175
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 11, 2025
The Prime Minister also pointed out that this initiative is part of a broader effort to transform the region, with 33 tunnels planned in total. Of these, 15 have already been completed, while work continues on others. “The Zojila Tunnel, for instance, is expected to reduce travel time between Srinagar and Leh by over three hours, benefiting both residents and tourists.”
“The new tunnel will also enhance access to Sonamarg, a popular tourist destination, unlocking opportunities for winter sports development and boosting the region’s economy,” he said.
As part of his visit, the Prime Minister also noted the government’s commitment to ongoing infrastructure development, including new roads, railways, colleges, and hospitals. He highlighted the investment of Rs 13,000 crores from various industries, which is expected to create thousands of jobs and contribute to the region’s growth
The Prime Minister also highlighted the government’s efforts to develop new educational institutions, including AIIMS in Jammu and Awantipora, and investment in high-tech industries.
He said, “JK Bank has seen a significant rise in business, growing from Rs 1 Lakh 60 thousand crores to Rs 2 Lakh 30 thousand crores in the last four years, thereby increasing the bank’s business and loan-giving capacity.”
Referring to the region’s development in recent years, PM Modi said that an international marathon was held in Srinagar, in which the Chief Minister participated, and a video of the event went viral. “I congratulated the CM for his enthusiasm and energy.”
Adding further he said, “After 40 years, Kashmir is hosted its first-ever international cricket league. Additionally, car racing events have been held at the Foreshore, and Gulmarg has been recognised as the Winter Games capital of India, with the 5th Khelo India Winter Games set to take place this February. In Jammu and Awantipora, significant progress is being made with the AIIMS project, while the region also hosts prestigious institutions such as IIT, IIM, and Central University, with state-of-the-art campuses.”
The Prime Minister concluded by reaffirming his commitment to Jammu and Kashmir’s bright future, noting that India’s development journey will ensure no one is left behind, with initiatives like “Sab Ka Saath, Sab Ka Vikas” leading the way.
JK is the crown of the country, I want this crown to be beautiful and prosperous, PM Modi said.
