SRINAGAR: Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s likely visit to Kashmir on January 13, security measures have been heightened across the region, particularly in Srinagar and central Kashmir.
The Prime Minister is expected to inaugurate the 6.5-kilometre Z-Morh Tunnel on the Srinagar-Leh National Highway, a vital infrastructure project that promises to transform Sonamarg into an all-weather tourist destination.
The tunnel, situated between Gagangir and Sonamarg, will provide year-round connectivity to the tourist hotspot, which has traditionally been cut off during winter months due to heavy snowfall and avalanches.
This groundbreaking development is anticipated to bolster tourism and facilitate seamless travel in the region.
Sources say that Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah are also likely to attend the inauguration ceremony.
The Z-Morh Tunnel, along with the adjacent Zojila Tunnel, is expected to play a critical role in ensuring uninterrupted connectivity between Srinagar, Baltal, and Ladakh.
An official confirmed that the Special Protection Group (SPG), responsible for the Prime Minister’s security, has arrived in Srinagar to oversee preparations.
Multi-layered security arrangements have been deployed, including enhanced patrolling, road barricades, and intensive checks at key points across Srinagar and other parts of the Kashmir Valley.
“The visit of the Prime Minister is of utmost importance, and all necessary security arrangements have been put in place to ensure a smooth event,” said a senior police official overseeing the arrangements.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah described the Z-Morh Tunnel as a “game changer” for winter tourism in the Valley.
“J&K, especially central Kashmir looks forward to the inauguration of a vital piece of infrastructure in the coming days. This asset will be a game changer for the expansion of winter tourism in the Valley,” he said.
Sonamarg, a popular summer destination known for its breathtaking landscapes, has remained inaccessible during winters. The new tunnel bypasses the Gagangir-Sonamarg stretch, ensuring uninterrupted access to the area, even in harsh weather conditions.
Tourism stakeholders in Jammu and Kashmir have welcomed the project, expressing optimism about the potential boost to the local economy. “This tunnel is not just a road; it’s a lifeline for the tourism industry in Sonamarg. We expect significant growth in tourist footfall, even during the harsh winter months,” said a local tourism operator. (KINS)
