In a major infrastructure boost for Jammu and Kashmir, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the highly-anticipated Sonamarg Tunnel on Monday (January 13), in the presence of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha.
The Prime Minister landed in Srinagar around 11 am and went to Sonamarg to inaugurate the 6.5-kilometre Z-Morh tunnel, which will be now called Sonamarg tunnel. Abdullah said the tunnel will enable the development of Sonamarg as a winter sports destination, akin to the famous Gulmarg skiing resort town.PM Modi is expected also address a rally on the occasion, followed by a meeting with the workers involved in the tunnel’s construction. Security forces in J&K had intensified sanitisation efforts and boosted police and military presence ahead of the Prime Minister’s visit. Gadkari has also arrived at Sonamarg to attend the inauguration ceremony.
On Saturday, Abdullah reviewed the preparedness of the Sonamarg tunnel, saying the town will now be developed as a great ski resort. “The local population will not have to leave in winter & the travel time to Kargil/Leh from Srinagar will also reduce,” he said.In response, PM Modi said, “”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!”
About Sonamarg Tunnel
The historic Sonamarg Tunnel in J&K is a 12-kilometre-long project with a total cost of over Rs 2,700 crore. The tunnel includes the main Sonamarg tunnel, an egress tunnel, and associated approach roads.Located at an altitude of more than 8,650 feet above sea level, it will provide all-weather connectivity between Srinagar and Sonamarg, eventually linking to Leh. The project is expected to transform Sonamarg into a year-round destination, boosting winter tourism, adventure sports, and local livelihood.
One of the key benefits of the tunnel is its ability to bypass landslide-prone and avalanche-affected routes, ensuring safer, uninterrupted access to the strategically significant Ladakh region. This is particularly important for defence logistics, as the enhanced connectivity will make it easier to move goods and personnel to the area.
