Meet Azad Ahmad, the Excavator Operator Who Won PM Modi’s Praise
Suhail Khan
Baramulla, Jan 14: Hard work enables a person to achieve anything. When a person works hard, there is nothing that cannot be accomplished. One only needs to be diligent and possess the courage to succeed. This has been clearly demonstrated by a son of the soil from Baramulla, whose efforts not only yielded fruitful results but also made him a star.
Meet Azad, a resident of the Sheeri area in north Kashmir Baramulla district, a true hero of development who, through his hard work, has made not only his family but whole Jammu and Kashmir proud when Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised his efforts.
Azad Ahmad Khan, an exceptional excavator operator from Baramulla, impressed Prime Minister Narendra Modi with his significant contributions to the Z-Morh Tunnel construction.
In an exclusive interview with Kashmir Despatch, he shared his experiences and accomplishments.
Azad stated that he has been working in tunnel constructions since 2007.
“I began my journey with the Hydro Project in Uri under HCC and later joined the Ranchi National Highway Project, along with several other companies, before becoming part of the Z-Morh Tunnel project in Sonamarg, which was completed in four years and one month,” he said.
Sharing his thoughts about the Z-Morh Tunnel project, Azad remarked that working on tunnel projects is no less than living with danger because every moment presents challenges. He explained that one must take great care to ensure that no one is in front or behind, that there are no electric wires nearby, that machines remain within the designated working area, and that no helpers come too close. Overall, it is a very tough job that requires dealing with many challenges, whether from the mountains or large boulders.
“Azad said that after completing this project, it was beyond his wildest dreams to meet the Prime Minister of India and to have his work recognized; it was no less than a moment of Eid.”
Azad also conveyed his gratitude to the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) for recognizing his work and providing him the opportunity to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Recalling the magical moments, Azad said, ‘When PM Modi stood in front of me, I could hardly believe it. I was unsure whether it was a dream or something else. However, gathering myself, I felt a mix of nerves and excitement. It was a moment I would cherish for a lifetime.’
Azad shared that Modi Ji began the conversation by asking him about his name and where he lived. He said, ‘When I responded, the Prime Minister was delighted to learn about my efforts on the project.
He said, ‘I explained in detail to the Prime Minister the challenges and risks we faced throughout the project.’
He added, After learning about these challenges, the Prime Minister inquired about my personal life and wished me good luck for a bright and successful future.
Azad stated, “When a person genuinely strives to accomplish something, they can achieve great things.” He noted, “My work has not only earned me respect but also recognition around the world, especially when the Prime Minister praised me.
In his message, Azad encouraged others to work hard and not underestimate the significance of their tasks. He urged people to embrace their work with dedication and set examples through their commitment. He emphasized that the days when people in Kashmir believed that only government jobs could lead to success are over. He firmly believes that when individuals pursue their goals with determination, they can achieve anything.
Azad also said that since yesterday, it has felt like Eid for my family, relatives, and even the entire area, as everyone celebrates my success.
Azad is the father of three children, including two daughters and a son.
Suhail Khan is a filmmaker, content writer, and freelance journalist.
