Suhail Khan
Sonmarg, Jan 13: A large crowd that gathered to hear Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Winter Wonderland Sonamarg described PM Modi as someone whose promises are steadfast and expressed hope for the early restoration of statehood.
Speaking to Kashmir Despatch, an energetic crowd that walked miles to catch a glimpse of the Prime Minister of India expressed that it felt great to see and hear Modi at the rally, especially regarding his commitments towards the development of Jammu and Kashmir.
They stated that when Modi speaks, he remains committed, and they hope that their status will be restored soon.
Saju Din, an elderly man from a village in central Kashmir, told Kashmir Despatch, “I came here with much hope to hear Modi announce the restoration of our statehood. However, during his speech, Modi stated that his government fulfills its promises. Now we will also see when the promise of statehood for Kashmiris will be fulfilled.”
He praised PM Modi for inaugurating the much-needed tunnel for the district, which he believes will not only generate employment but also boost winter tourism in the health resort of Sonamarg.
He further mentioned, “Sonamarg remains closed during winter despite its potential for winter business and tourism, but with this tunnel, the tourism economy will grow for the people here as well as throughout Kashmir, leading to more business opportunities.”
Sanaullah, another local who participated in the rally, said, “I am so happy today that our long-pending project has finally become a reality with the inauguration of the tunnel by our Prime Minister.”
He added, “What could be better luck for the people of Ganderbal than this significant gift in 2024?”
He said, “Let’s hope our other demand for the restoration of statehood is also met soon.”
Meanwhile, people arrived at the venue early in the morning on Monday to listen to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. “It is great to see the PM here and hear him. The tunnel will benefit the locals as the road will now remain open during winters,” stated another group of people.
They remarked that this new tunnel, connecting Ganderbal to Sonamarg, is a significant step forward in improving the region’s infrastructure. They added, “Just as the Prime Minister spoke during the occasion about his commitments, let’s hope our statehood will also be restored.”
