Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today inaugurated the Sonamarg Tunnel in Jammu & Kashmir, a landmark infrastructure project that promises to revolutionize connectivity and boost tourism in the region. Addressing a large gathering at the event, the Prime Minister expressed his gratitude to the laborers who braved harsh conditions to complete the project. He paid tribute to their resilience and also offered condolences for the loss of seven workers during the tunnel’s construction.
Key Highlights from the PM’s Address
- Connectivity and Tourism: The Prime Minister emphasized that the Sonamarg Tunnel will significantly improve year-round connectivity for the strategically important Ladakh region, ensuring uninterrupted access despite heavy snowfalls, avalanches, or landslides. “This tunnel will be a lifeline for Sonamarg, Kargil, and Leh, benefiting residents, tourists, and defense logistics alike,” he said.
- Boost to Tourism: Shri Modi noted that the improved infrastructure will open up new opportunities for tourism, making Sonamarg a year-round destination. Adventure sports, winter tourism, and local livelihoods are expected to thrive.
- Jammu & Kashmir’s Development: He described Jammu & Kashmir as “the crown of India” and highlighted its transformation over the past decade. He outlined ambitious plans for the region, including projects to enhance connectivity, improve healthcare, and expand education.
- Infrastructure Achievements: The Prime Minister praised the ongoing development of roads, railways, tunnels, and bridges across Jammu & Kashmir. He highlighted the engineering marvel of the Chenab Bridge, the cable bridge project, and the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla rail link, all of which aim to integrate the region seamlessly with the rest of the country.
- Youth Empowerment and Opportunities: The Prime Minister detailed initiatives like Khelo India centers, AIIMS construction in Jammu and Avantipora, and the establishment of top-tier educational institutions such as IITs and IIMs to empower the youth and provide better opportunities.
A Vision for the Future
Shri Modi highlighted the larger vision of making India a developed nation by 2047, ensuring that no region or family is left behind. He reiterated the government’s commitment to “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas,” with plans to provide housing for the poor, expand healthcare access, and attract new industries to Jammu & Kashmir.
The Prime Minister shared his desire to see Kashmir regain its status as “Paradise on Earth,” leaving behind a challenging past for a future filled with peace, progress, and prosperity. He praised the local community for their resilience, democratic participation, and contribution to the region’s transformation.
The Sonamarg Tunnel Project
Constructed at a cost of ₹2,700 crore, the Sonamarg Tunnel spans approximately 12 kilometers, including a 6.4-kilometer main tunnel, an egress tunnel, and approach roads. Situated at an altitude of over 8,650 feet, the tunnel ensures all-weather connectivity between Srinagar and Sonamarg en route to Leh.
The project is expected to bolster economic growth, improve access to essential services, and promote cultural integration between Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. Alongside the Zojila Tunnel, which is slated for completion by 2028, it will reduce travel distance and time, significantly improving connectivity on National Highway 1 (NH-1).
Acknowledging Workers’ Contributions
During the event, the Prime Minister personally interacted with the construction workers, acknowledging their unwavering dedication to completing the tunnel under extreme conditions. Their hard work was celebrated as a cornerstone of this engineering accomplishment.
Guests and Dignitaries
The event was attended by Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha, Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Shri Omar Abdullah, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Shri Nitin Gadkari, and other prominent leaders and officials.
A New Era for Jammu & Kashmir
Concluding his address, Prime Minister Modi assured the people of Jammu & Kashmir of his unwavering support for their aspirations. He reiterated his vision of a prosperous, peaceful, and connected region, adding that the Sonamarg Tunnel is a milestone in this journey.