‘Eagerly awaiting’: PM Modi responds as Omar Abdullah shares photos and videos ahead of Z-Morh tunnel inauguration
The Z Morh Tunnel, set to be inaugurated by PM Narendra Modi, will enhance connectivity from Srinagar to Sonamarg and eventually, to Ladakh. It will benefit tourism and local economy.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday responded to a post by Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, and said that he is eagerly waiting for his visit to Sonmarg to inaugurate the Z-morh tunnel next week.
“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!” said Modi reacting to Abdullah's post, who had visited the site to review preparations ahead of the PM's visit.
In a post on X, tagging the Prime Minister, Abdullah said, “Visited Sonmarg today to review preparations for PM @narendramodi ji's visit on Monday. The inauguration of the Z-morh tunnel will open Sonmarg to tourism all year round.”
Further stating that Sonmarg will now be developed as a great ski resort, Abdullah said, “The local population will not have to leave in winter, and the travel time to Kargil/Leh from Srinagar will also reduce.”
PM Modi will officially open the vital Z Morh Tunnel on Monday — one of two significant projects in Jammu and Kashmir that are scheduled for inauguration at the beginning of 2025.
A rail connectivity project, which would connect Kashmir to the rest of the nation for the first time ever, is also scheduled for later this month.
The Z-Morh tunnel will guarantee year-round connection between Kashmir and Sonamarg when it opens to the public on January 13.
The construction of the 6.5-kilometre tunnel on the Srinagar-Leh highway in the Ganderbal district's Gagangir sector is worth ₹24 billion.
The road to Sonamarg was rendered impassable during snowfall and severe winters due to the construction of the Z-morh tunnel in an avalanche-prone location. Because Sonamarg used to be closed during periods of severe snowfall, the tunnel is key to the region's tourism industry.
The tunnel will enhance connectivity from Srinagar to Sonamarg and, eventually, to Ladakh. It is also strategically crucial to the military forces. Located at an elevation of more than 8,500 feet, this road segment is especially susceptible to winter weather.
Catch all the Business News , Breaking News Events and Latest News Updates on Live Mint. Download The Mint News App to get Daily Market Updates.
Business NewsNewsIndia‘Eagerly awaiting’: PM Modi responds as Omar Abdullah shares photos and videos ahead of Z-Morh tunnel inauguration
First Published:11 Jan 2025, 06:27 PM IST
- Top Gainers
- Top Losers
- 52 Week High