Jammu 13 Jan 2025 (Baber Farooq):Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during a public meeting after inaugurating the Z-Morh tunnel in Jammu and Kashmir, reaffirmed his commitment to fulfilling the promises he made to the region, emphasizing that “the right things will happen at the right time.” His remarks followed Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s call for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood during the event.
Modi highlighted the significant progress and peace in Jammu and Kashmir, which he said is now driving tourism and development. Referring to the region as the “crown of the country,” he underscored his vision of making Jammu and Kashmir beautiful and prosperous. He also announced that Kashmir would soon be connected by train, creating further enthusiasm among its residents.
The Z-Morh tunnel, a strategically vital 6.5-km-long, two-lane bi-directional road tunnel in Ganderbal district, was inaugurated at the event. The Rs 2,700-crore project, situated at an altitude of 8,650 feet, ensures all-weather connectivity between Srinagar and Sonamarg, bypassing landslide-prone areas. Additionally, it features a parallel 7.5-metre emergency escape passage. The project is expected to boost tourism by providing year-round access to Sonamarg.
During his visit, Modi paid tribute to the victims of a terror attack near the tunnel in October last year and interacted with construction workers and project officials, acknowledging their dedication under challenging conditions.
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah were present at the event. This marks Modi’s first visit to Jammu and Kashmir since the assembly elections held last year.
