Ganderbal (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], January 13: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Z-Morh Tunnel in Sonamarg, Jammu and Kashmir, on Saturday, emphasizing the region’s transformation into a hub for tunnels, bridges, and ropeways. During his speech, PM Modi highlighted the impressive infrastructure developments taking place in the area, including the world’s highest tunnel, rail bridge, and rail lines, noting that the world was in awe of the engineering behind the Chenab Bridge.
“Our Jammu and Kashmir is becoming a hub of tunnels, bridges, and ropeways,” PM Modi said. “The highest tunnel in the world is being built here. The highest railroad bridge and rail lines are also being constructed in this region. The world is amazed by the engineering of the Chenab Bridge.”
Reflecting on his long connection to the region, PM Modi shared memories of his earlier days as a BJP worker, when he would travel on foot for hours through difficult conditions to meet the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He stated, “I used to travel to places like Sonamarg, Gulmarg, and Baramulla, often walking for miles through heavy snowfall, yet the warmth of the people of Kashmir made us forget the cold.”
The Prime Minister reiterated his commitment to fulfilling long-pending demands, pointing to the completion of the Sonamarg Tunnel as a significant milestone. “I am here as a ‘sevak’ (servant) among you, fulfilling promises made to the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The Sonamarg Tunnel will reduce the hardships faced by the people of Kargil and Leh,” he said.
The Sonamarg Tunnel, a key infrastructure project costing over Rs 2,700 crore, spans 12 km and is designed to provide all-weather connectivity between Srinagar and Sonamarg, bypassing hazardous avalanche-prone areas. This will ensure safer, uninterrupted access to the strategically important Ladakh region.
PM Modi also stressed the role of tourism in transforming Sonamarg into a year-round destination, saying that the tunnel would boost winter tourism, adventure sports, and local livelihoods. “The Sonamarg Tunnel will create new opportunities for tourism and attract visitors from across the country,” he added.
In his address, the Prime Minister noted the improvements in rail connectivity, schools, and colleges in the region, emphasizing the commitment of his government to the development of Jammu and Kashmir. “This is the new Jammu and Kashmir, a region moving forward with the vision of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas (Together with all, Development for all),” he said.
The Sonamarg Tunnel is a significant part of the broader infrastructure development agenda in the region, which also includes the Zojila Tunnel, set for completion by 2028. Once both tunnels are operational, they will reduce the travel distance from 49 km to 43 km and increase vehicle speeds, ensuring smoother and faster connectivity between Srinagar Valley and Ladakh. This will enhance defense logistics, promote economic growth, and foster socio-cultural integration in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.