Sonamarg, Jammu & Kashmir — Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled the much-anticipated Sonamarg Tunnel today, marking a transformative milestone in connectivity and tourism for Jammu and Kashmir. Amidst the stunning snow-clad peaks of Sonamarg, the PM declared the event as a celebration of resilience, development, and the unyielding spirit of the region’s people.
Addressing a spirited gathering, Modi praised the laborers and engineers who defied extreme conditions to achieve this engineering marvel. “Despite the challenges, our resolve never wavered. This tunnel is not just an infrastructural achievement but a testament to the determination of our people and their aspirations for a brighter future,” he said.
The Sonamarg Tunnel, part of a ₹2,700 crore project, spans approximately 12 kilometers and includes a 6.4 km main tunnel, egress pathways, and approach roads. It stands as a critical link between Srinagar and Sonamarg, extending to the strategic Ladakh region. Designed to withstand the harshest winters and bypass avalanche-prone areas, the tunnel ensures year-round connectivity, paving the way for economic growth, seamless defense logistics, and an enhanced tourist experience.
A Boost to Tourism and Local Prosperity
PM Modi emphasized the tunnel’s role in transforming Sonamarg into a year-round tourist hub. “Improved connectivity will unlock the untapped potential of Jammu and Kashmir. In 2024 alone, the region welcomed over 2 crore tourists, with Sonamarg witnessing a sixfold increase in visitors over the past decade,” he said. The influx has spurred local businesses, from homestays to taxi services, showcasing how development directly uplifts livelihoods.
The Prime Minister reflected on the beauty and warmth of Kashmir, recounting his past visits to iconic locations like Gulmarg and Baramulla. He lauded the region’s resurgence as a peaceful haven and credited the people for transforming Jammu and Kashmir into a bustling hub of culture, commerce, and connectivity.
Engineering Marvels Redefining the Landscape
Modi highlighted the broader infrastructure revolution underway, with ₹42,000 crore allocated to connectivity projects in Jammu and Kashmir. Projects like the Zojila Tunnel, the Chenab Bridge, and the Katra-Delhi Expressway are reshaping the region’s accessibility. The PM noted, “Jammu and Kashmir is now home to some of the world’s highest tunnels and bridges, symbolizing the limitless aspirations of New India.”
The recently completed Chenab Bridge, hailed as an engineering marvel, and the forthcoming Zojila Tunnel are set to drastically improve travel times while enhancing safety and operational efficiency. These projects will bridge the geographical and emotional distance between Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh, fostering socio-cultural integration.
Youth and Opportunity: A Vision for 2047
The PM shared his vision for a developed India by 2047, underscoring the critical role of youth. “Institutes like IIT, IIM, and AIIMS are empowering our youth. Investments worth ₹13,000 crore have brought industries and jobs to the region. Our youth are scripting their success stories,” he said. The PM also celebrated Jammu and Kashmir’s emergence as a sporting destination, with international events like marathons, winter games, and car races adding to its global allure.
Building a Prosperous Future
PM Modi concluded by reiterating his commitment to making Jammu and Kashmir the jewel in India’s crown. “Kashmir is the pride of the nation. With every development project, we are ensuring that its future is as glorious as its past,” he remarked. The PM promised continued support to the region’s people, urging them to join in the journey toward progress and prosperity.
With the Sonamarg Tunnel now operational, Jammu and Kashmir stands poised on the brink of a new era—one of connectivity, opportunity, and boundless potential.
